Achillea umbellata

Achillea umbellata is a small fluffy perennial plant that grows close to the ground, forming silver cushions of finely divided leaves – as soft on the eyes as they are soft to the touch.

Its finely toothed, downy foliage, a brilliant silvery gray in winter, becomes almost white in summer under the influence of heat and drought. It reminds us of Tanacetum densum subsp amani in a lot of ways.

The flowers are pure white, flat topped umbels – the typical Achillea flower shapes – appearing in the spring, between April and June.

The foliage is evergreen, allowing for interest in the winter as well.

Achillea umbellata forms a valuable-looking ground cover, 15–25 cm tall in flower and 10–15 cm for the foliage, depending on growing conditions.

All yarrows love the sun and are highly hardy.

Non-invasive, hardy, soil-undemanding, and water-efficient, it is ideal for dry, arid slopes. This yarrow also helps suppress weeds and adds a refined touch to the garden.

👨‍🌾GARDENING TIPS👨‍🌾: 

• • ☀️Prefers full sun and dry, well-drained soil. 
  • 💧Applying mulch around the clump will help retain moisture for a longer period.
  • ✂️ Cutting back the stems to 20cm from the ground in January promotes a strong reconstitution
  • ➗Divide the clumps as they begin to multiply. It isn’t invasive, but can be a vigorous grower.

Discover how to garden with Achillea umbellata:

• • Inspiration: Jardin Sec: Mediterranean Style Gardening
  • Cushions: Combine with cushion plants such as Geranium sanguineum, Erigeron karvinskianus, Nepeta x faassenii or other yarrows (Achillea millefolium).
  • Ground covers: Combine with mat-forming perennials such as various Thymus species, Origanum or Rosmarinus prostratus

The Tales & The Botany: Achillea umbellata

Like its relatives in the Achillea genus, Achillea umbellata has been celebrated for centuries for its herbal properties, though in the garden it’s mostly prized for its airy white flowers, delicate foliage, and pollinator-friendly charm.

This excellent rock garden perennial requires little weeding thanks to its allelopathic properties*

Allelopathy, as our Thyme friends will remind us, is the ability of certain plants to synthesize compounds in their roots that inhibits the germination and growth of other seeds – assuring total dominance of a species once it becomes large enough.

The genus name Achillea pays homage to the legendary Greek hero Achilles, who, according to folklore, used plants of this genus to treat soldiers’ wounds.

The species epithet umbellata refers to the characteristic flat-topped, umbrella-like clusters of tiny flowers that appear in late spring, giving the plant its airy, textured appeal.

🌸 Floral Morphology

The flowers of Achillea umbellata form flat-topped umbels, creating a delicate cloud of white at the top of short, erect stems.

Each tiny flower is actinomorphic, with five fused petals, and collectively they attract a wide range of pollinators, from bees and hoverflies to small butterflies.

The leaves are alternate, finely dissected, and feathery, giving a soft, lacy texture that contrasts beautifully with coarser-leaved companions.

When touched, the foliage emits a slight herbal aroma, hinting at its traditional medicinal uses and adding sensory interest to the garden.

🌱 Reproductive Biology

Achillea umbellata is hermaphroditic, capable of self-pollination but thriving with cross-pollination by insects.

Fruits are small, dry achenes, which can self-seed under ideal conditions, helping the plant naturalize in sunny, well-drained areas.

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

The airy floral structure and aromatic foliage make it particularly attractive to pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity while providing a delicate visual display.

🌍 Écologie & Adaptations