For the American gardener seeking resilience, long-lasting color, and exceptional value for pollinators, few perennials can match the versatility of yarrow (Achillea). From a botanical perspective, the best varieties are those that not only exhibit vibrant floral displays but also possess robust growth habits, disease resistance, and adaptability to a range of climates. The following selections represent top-tier Achillea varieties well-suited to the diverse conditions found in US gardens.
While often considered a meadow plant, the native Common Yarrow is an exceptional garden performer, particularly for low-water and wildlife gardens. From a plant's perspective, its finely dissected, fern-like foliage is highly efficient at reducing water loss through transpiration, making it exceptionally drought-tolerant. The species typically produces flat-topped clusters of white flowers, but numerous cultivated varieties have been developed. Plants like 'Paprika' (vermilion-red with yellow centers) and 'Terracotta' (peachy-orange) offer the same rugged constitution as the wild form but with a spectacular color palette. These varieties spread gently by rhizomes, forming sturdy clumps that can help suppress weeds. They are ideal for USDA zones 3-9 and thrive in full sun with well-drained soil.
A classic hybrid, Achillea 'Moonshine' has been a garden favorite for decades due to its exceptional ornamental qualities. Botanically, it is prized for its upright, compact habit and its striking, sulfur-yellow flower heads that stand in beautiful contrast to its silvery-gray, aromatic foliage. This silver foliage is an adaptation to reflect intense sunlight, protecting the plant's photosynthetic tissues from damage. 'Moonshine' is a sterile hybrid, meaning it does not produce viable seed. This is a significant advantage for the gardener, as the plant directs all its energy into prolonged blooming from early summer into fall without becoming invasive. It performs best in zones 3-8 and requires excellent drainage to prevent crown rot in winter.
For gardeners seeking a softer color range, the Achillea 'Summer Pastels' mix is an excellent choice. This variety is not a single cultivar but a seed-grown strain that produces a stunning array of flowers in shades of pink, salmon, lavender, cream, and apricot on a single plant over time. From a growth perspective, these plants will often revert or "break" from hybrid colors back toward stronger pinks or reds as they mature. They typically grow to about 24 inches tall and, like other yarrows, their sturdy stems and flat flower clusters provide an essential landing platform for butterflies and beneficial insects. They are well-adapted to zones 4-9.
For smaller spaces, rock gardens, or the front of the border, Achillea 'Little Moonshine' offers all the appeal of its larger relative in a compact package. This plant exhibits a dense, mounding habit, reaching only about 12 inches in height. Its growth form is an adaptation to windy or exposed sites, reducing the risk of stem damage. It produces the same bright yellow, plate-like flowers and silvery foliage as 'Moonshine' but on a scale perfect for containers or edging. Its smaller stature also means it requires less staking, even in rich soils. It is hardy in zones 3-8 and is particularly valued for its neat, long-lasting presence in the garden.
For a dramatic vertical accent, Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold' is unparalleled. This variety is characterized by its large, dense, mustard-yellow flower heads that can reach 5 inches across on stems soaring up to 4 feet tall. Botanically, the large composite flowers are composed of hundreds of tiny individual florets, creating a massive, attractive target for pollinators from a great distance. Its strong, stiff stems are well-adapted to supporting these heavy flower heads without flopping, especially when grown in full sun and lean, well-drained soil. It is best suited for the middle or back of a sunny border in zones 3-8.
