Yarrow (Achillea ‘Summerwine’)

Yarrow

Features and Characteristics

Achillea is a genus of about 85 species of mostly herbaceous perennial from the Northern Hemisphere. Several hybrids are available.

The genus name Achillea refers to Achilles, hero of the Trojan Wars in Greek mythology, who used the plant medicinally to stop bleeding and to heal the wounds of his soldiers.

‘Summerwine’ is a rhizomatous, upright-spreading yarrow that is noted for its burgundy red flowers and dark green foliage. It is a Galaxy Hybrid cultivar (A. aegyptiaca var. taygetea x A. millefolium) introduced from Germany. Galaxy Hybrids generally feature stronger stems and larger flower clusters than those of the A. millefolium parent. ‘Summerwine’ features deeply-dissected, fern-like, dark green leaves and tiny, long-lasting, burgundy red flowers with tiny pale white centers. Flowers gradually fade to pink as they age. Flowers appear in dense, flattened, compound corymbs (to 4-5” across) from early to late summer on stems typically rising to 15-24” tall.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in lean, dry to medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams in full sun. Does well in average garden soils and tolerates poor soils as long as drainage is good. Avoid heavy clays and moist, rich, fertile soils. Plants are best sited in locations protected from strong winds. Deadhead spent flower heads to lateral buds to promote additional bloom. Cut plants back to basal leaves after flowering to tidy the planting and to encourage new foliage growth and a possible additional fall bloom. Divide clumps as needed (every 3-4 years) to reinvigorate plantings.

Yarrow (Achillea ‘Summerwine’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

Botrytis, stem rot, powdery mildew and rust are occasional disease problems. Taller plants may need staking, particularly if grown in less than full sun. Strong summer rain storms with high winds can flatten exposed plantings. Does poorly in wet sites or in heavy, poorly drained soil.

Uses

Specimen, group or mass. Borders. Cottage gardens, wild gardens, naturalized areas or meadows.

Yarrow (Achillea ‘Summerwine’) Details

Common name	Yarrow
Botanical name	Achillea 'Summerwine'
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Burgundy Red
Flowering period	June - September
Height	1 - 2 Ft.
Width	1 - 2 Ft.