perennial

Fern-leaf Yarrow

Achillea filipendulina

The Story

Plant Bio

Achillea filipendulina, also known as Fern-leaved yarrow, is a perennial herb known for its feathery foliage and flat-topped clusters of yellow flowers.

This species is particularly valued for its drought resistance and long-lasting flowers, making it an excellent choice for prairie and cottage garden styles.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAchillea filipendulina provides vibrant, long-lasting yellow flowers that attract pollinators and add color to perennial borders.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it ideal for low-water gardens and xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees and butterflies with abundant nectar, promoting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

42 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity during root development.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves, typically in late spring.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer for optimal growth.
  5. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall to rejuvenate plants.
  6. Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds during summer.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vigorous, long-lasting blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells, especially in first year 🌱
  • Prune dead or faded flowers to encourage new blooms
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth
  • Divide every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall, wait until early spring
  • Refrain from planting in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil without amendments
  • Don’t neglect to remove spent flowers to promote reblooming

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Harvest
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Golden‑foliaged perennial borderAromatic herb gardenDrought-tolerant rock garden

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fern-leaf Yarrow questions

What zones can Fern-leaf Yarrow grow in?

Fern-leaf Yarrow 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 Fern-leaf Yarrow deer resistant?

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

When does Fern-leaf Yarrow bloom?

Fern-leaf Yarrow typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fern-leaf Yarrow need full sun?

Fern-leaf Yarrow does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Fern-leaf Yarrow drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Fern-leaf Yarrow with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.