Achillea tomentosa Aurea at Digging Dog Nursery

Dwarf Woolly Yarrow

Yarrow

Legend has it that Achilles used this plant to heal his soldiers’ wounds after battle. As a folk remedy, its leaves are prescribed to soothe abrasions and toothache. We find this sturdy, dependable plant the perfect remedy for many design situations. The broad, flat flower heads enhance horizontal elements, their colors blending with other perennials. Spicy smelling, fernlike foliage and strong straight stems add to overall attractiveness. Spreading and drought tolerant, Yarrow seems to thrive on neglect, can handle ocean spray and will bloom again in the fall if cut back in midsummer.

Achillea tomentosa ‘Aurea’

Woolly, narrow, and finely feathered, small gray-green leaves knit a tidy, low growing mat that is both attractive and extremely drought tolerant. Tightset, flat clusters of perky lemon yellow flowers perch on 6 to 10 in. stems above dense soft-looking foliage. Championed as a choice candidate for clambering about the rockery, filling in small crannies, or edging a path, this tenacious charmer can pal around with Scutellaria ‘Texas Rose’, though it resents hot humid weather.

Blooms June–August.

Size: 6" high x 10" wide; hardy to zone 4.