Achillea
Achillea, or yarrow, carries flat, plate-like clusters of tiny densely-packed florets in sunny yellow, white, coral, pink and rusty red atop feathery foliage. Florists use it as a bold, textural filler whose horizontal heads add structure and a meadow-like, cottage-garden character. It is exceptionally long-lasting fresh and dries superbly, holding its colour for everlasting designs. Sturdy and sun-loving, it is a mainstay of rustic and seasonal summer work.
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Northern Hemisphere (temperate regions) |
| Peak season | June, July, August |
| Availability | May, June, July, August, September |
| Stem length | 40–80 cm |
| Vase life | 7–12 days |
| Colors | yellow, white, coral, pink, red |
| Price tier | budget |
Cut stems at an angle and strip the lower ferny foliage, which fouls water fast. Condition in cool, clean water with flower food for several hours. Yarrow is very long-lived; refresh the water to prevent the strong-smelling stems from clouding it. To dry, hang small bunches upside down in a warm, dark, airy place.
- •Strip lower foliage to keep water clean
- •Change water often to avoid odour
- •Cut stems on a slant
- •Hang in bunches to dry well
- •Keep cool for the longest fresh life
