Species

Achillea millefoliumCommon Yarrow

34 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Yarrow Rock Red

Achillea millefolium 'Rock Red'

The Story

Plant Bio

Achillea millefolium 'Rock Red' is a hardy perennial with finely dissected, fern-like green foliage and clusters of vibrant, deep red flowers that form flat-topped inflorescences, attracting pollinators throughout the summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its intense red flower color, which provides striking contrast in flower borders and cut flower arrangements, and its excellent drought tolerance.

Uses & Benefits:

Achillea millefolium 'Rock Red' offers striking red blooms that add vibrant color and texture to perennial borders and rock gardens.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardening and low-maintenance landscape designs.

Provides nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesAchillea millefoliumCommon Yarrow

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.

Bloom period

Summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water gently to keep soil moist during germination.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart after sprouting.
Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring.
Deadhead spent flowers to promote rebloom.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
Deadhead flowers regularly
Divide every 3–4 years

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Don’t fertilize excessively
Do not prune in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant rock garden

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Echinacea Salvia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yarrow Rock Red questions

What zones can Yarrow Rock Red grow in?

Yarrow Rock Red 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 Yarrow Rock Red deer resistant?

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

When does Yarrow Rock Red bloom?

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

Does Yarrow Rock Red need full sun?

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

Is Yarrow Rock Red drought tolerant?

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