perennial

Sneezewort

Achillea ptarmica 'Stephanie Cohen'

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers well-drained, dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested; can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

The Story

Plant Bio

Achillea ptarmica, commonly known as sneezewort, is a rhizomatous perennial featuring narrow, lance-shaped, serrated green leaves. It produces branching clusters of small, typically white, button-like flowers from early to late summer. This cultivar, selected by Stephanie Cohen, is noted for its compact, non-spreading habit, unlike the often aggressive species. It produces a profusion of pure white, double flowers, creating a delicate, cloud-like effect in borders and cutting gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides attractive, fragrant white blooms that attract pollinators and add visual interest in borders and perennial beds.

Drought-tolerant, low-maintenance perennial suitable for xeriscaping and sustainable gardens.

Supports bees and butterflies, contributing to pollinator health.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Place in full sun for best flowering.
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells to keep soil moist 🌱
Prune dead or damaged stems after flowering
Fertilize in early spring for vigorous growth

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization that promotes floppy growth
Don’t cut back in late fall; prune in early spring

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderFragrant perennial bedPollinator-friendly garden

Companion Plants

Echinacea Coreopsis Lavender Salvia Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sneezewort questions

What zones can Sneezewort grow in?

Sneezewort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sneezewort deer resistant?

Yes — Sneezewort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sneezewort bloom?

Sneezewort typically blooms in early summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sneezewort need full sun?

Sneezewort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sneezewort drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sneezewort handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.