Achillea millefolium Apfelblute ou Appleblossom

Yarrow tea has and can be used as a sedative or relaxant to reduce anxiety and stress – it is a bit bitter though, so it isn’t for everyone 🙂

🌸 Floral Morphology: Achillea millefolium Apfelblute

The flowers of Achillea ‘Apfelblüte’ are arranged in flat-topped umbels, forming striking lilac clusters at the ends of erect stems.

Each tiny flower is actinomorphic with five petals, and together they create a dense, cloud-like floral display.

The finely divided, fern-like leaves are alternate and aromatic, giving a soft texture that contrasts beautifully with coarser garden plants.

When touched, the foliage emits a mild herbal scent, adding both tactile and olfactory interest to the garden.

🌱 Reproductive Biology

‘Apfelblüte’ is hermaphroditic, capable of self-pollination, though cross-pollination by bees, butterflies, and hoverflies is preferred.

Flowering occurs from late spring into midsummer, and deadheading can prolong bloom slightly.

Fruits are small achenes that may self-seed under optimal conditions, allowing the plant to slowly naturalize in sunny, well-drained sites.

The combination of bright flowers and aromatic foliage makes Achillea ‘Apfelblüte’ highly attractive to pollinators, enhancing the ecological value of garden plantings.

🌍 Écologie & Adaptations

Achillea ‘Apfelblüte’ thrives in temperate and Mediterranean-style gardens, particularly in:

• • Borders and rockeries: Forms dense mats of aromatic foliage and radiant golden flowers, filling gaps and adding visual interest.
  • Pollinator-friendly beds: Flowers provide abundant nectar for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies.
  • Sunny, well-drained sites: Full sun encourages prolific flowering and keeps the plant compact, even in poor soils.

Key adaptations include:

• • 💦 High drought tolerance once established: Hairy, silvery leaves reduce water loss and help the plant survive dry conditions.
  • ☀️ Sun-loving: Performs best in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
  • 👍 Low-maintenance: Aromatic foliage deters some pests, and the plant requires minimal care.
  • 🌸 Long flowering period: Ensures continuous visual impact and nectar supply for several weeks.
  • 💪 Self-supporting, compact habit: Ideal for front-of-border planting, rockeries, and container use.