Species

Achillea tomentosaWoolly Yarrow

perennial RHS AwardN. America Native

King Edward Yarrow

Achillea tomentosa 'King Edward'

Same species

Species

Achillea tomentosaWoolly Yarrow

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Compact, evergreen perennial with fragrant foliage and clusters of yellow flowers. Known for its ability to thrive in dry conditions and maintain a neat appearance.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Achillea tomentosa 'King Edward' adds silvery foliage and cheerful yellow blooms, perfect for borders and rock gardens.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, it is ideal for xeriscaping and erosion control.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil, spacing them 12 inches apart.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells to keep soil lightly moist 🌱
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushy growth
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Apply a light feed in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers that promote floppy growth
Refrain from cutting back in late fall to protect winter interest
Don’t plant in poorly-drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant perennial bedWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Lavandula angustifolia Sedum spectabile Gaillardia Rudbeckia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

King Edward Yarrow questions

What zones can King Edward Yarrow grow in?

King Edward Yarrow is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is King Edward Yarrow deer resistant?

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

When does King Edward Yarrow bloom?

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

Does King Edward Yarrow need full sun?

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

Is King Edward Yarrow drought tolerant?

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