Achillea macrophylla, commonly known as the large-leaved yarrow, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Central Asia, it can be found in countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan. This plant typically grows up to 60 cm in height and has a spreading habit with fern-like leaves that can reach up to 20 cm in length. The small, yellowish-white flowers, about 1 cm in diameter, bloom from June through August on tall stems above the foliage.
Achillea macrophylla prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Once established, it becomes drought-tolerant, although it requires regular watering during its first year of growth.
This plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to treat wounds, fever, digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and more.
In garden or landscape settings, Achillea macrophylla is an excellent addition due to its attractive foliage texture, which adds interest even when not in bloom. It also attracts pollinators such as bees, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants, making it an excellent companion plant for vegetable gardens or orchards.
Overall, Achillea macrophylla is an easy-to-grow perennial herbaceous plant that adds beauty both indoors (as cut flowers) and outdoors (in garden beds).
Big-leaf yarrow is well resistant to disease and typically not prone to illnesses. Still, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. These problems are usually mild. For care, this plant needs moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also encourage flowering. Big-leaf yarrow is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not require a lot of care experience. It may need extra attention if grown indoors.
How to keep Achillea Macrophylla.
Light
Big-leaf yarrow is a perennial herbaceous plant that prefers sunny conditions and comes from open habitats, commonly flourishing in meadows and grasslands. It favors full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.
Water
Big-leaf yarrow, which comes from temperate regions, thrives with moderate moisture and regular weekly watering. It does well outdoors, benefitting from the natural water patterns of the seasons. As a herbaceous perennial, big-leaf yarrow effectively uses seasonal rains to fuel its robust summer growth.
Temperature
Big-leaf yarrow can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its presence may still be restricted by different mixes of moisture and heat. It grows best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or irrigation. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather, as well as prolonged high temperatures, increase the risk of Big-leaf yarrow dying. In winter, proper protection from cold can raise the plant’s survival rate.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Big-leaf yarrow is in early spring, as it comes out of dormancy and starts active growth. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients for healthy growth. Although Big-leaf yarrow has relatively low fertilizer needs, applying fertilizer annually can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting blooms.
Pruning
To properly care for big-leaf yarrow, begin by pruning in early to late spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead stems and spent flowers to encourage bushiness and blooming while also preventing diseases and improving air circulation. Conduct regular thinning and shaping to boost the overall health and vigor of the plant.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Achillea
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 40 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France
Other names.
Reader questions.
What are the sunlight requirements for Big-leaf yarrow (Achillea macrophylla)?
Big-leaf yarrow (Achillea macrophylla) thrives in conditions where it can receive full sun, which is above 6 hours of sunlight a day, or partial sun, about 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. It's important to observe the movement of sunlight through your garden to identify spots that offer an ideal balance of light and shade. This thoughtful placement ensures the plants remain healthy and happy.
