Achillea 'Terracotta'
Achillea ‘Terracotta’ is a hardy, herbaceous perennial known for its unique blend of soft orange to golden-yellow flower clusters and fine, fern-like foliage. This yarrow variety offers both beauty and resilience, making it a favorite for sunny garden beds, borders, and naturalized landscapes.
The standout feature of ‘Terracotta’ is its flower color, which opens in warm, peachy-orange tones and gradually fades to a soft straw yellow. These flat-topped blooms appear in early to mid-summer and continue into early fall, providing long-lasting color and an excellent source of nectar for pollinators.
In addition to its visual appeal, ‘Terracotta’ is exceptionally tough. It is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and thrives in poor or dry soils where other plants may struggle. Its upright habit and long-lasting blooms also make it a great cut flower, both fresh and dried.
Reaching 24 to 30 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide, ‘Terracotta’ is well-suited for mixed borders, cottage gardens, and prairie-style plantings. Its earthy tones blend beautifully with ornamental grasses and other perennials, while its low-maintenance nature makes it easy to grow and enjoy.
Planting: Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Yarrow does best in lean, slightly sandy or gravelly soils but is adaptable to a variety of conditions. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for air circulation and healthy growth.
Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, ‘Terracotta’ is very drought-tolerant and prefers dry to moderately moist conditions. Avoid overwatering or poorly drained sites.
Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering and prevent self-seeding. In late fall or early spring, cut back stems to the base to tidy up and rejuvenate new growth.
Pest & Disease Control: Achillea is generally pest- and disease-free. Good air circulation and well-drained soil help prevent mildew and root rot.
Soil Tips: Thrives in poor to moderately fertile soils with excellent drainage. Avoid overly rich or wet soils, which can lead to floppy growth. Slightly alkaline to neutral pH is ideal for healthy foliage and flower production.
