Flower Guide for achillea

Unique, delicate and bold appearance, achillea will most certainly do the job if you’re looking for a wild bloom with a quintessential style.

This seasonal, wild flower is lovely for traditional country style weddings and events. The flower is suitable for wedding tied posy bouquets and larger arrangements.

The flower is available in a wide range of colours from March through to November. Popular varieties include Moonshine and Parkers Variety in a yellow, gold palette.

Drying Achillea is very common.

Common Name(s): Yarrow, Milfoil, Cottage Yarrow

Botanical Name: Achillea, (A-KILL-e-a)

Form: Round

Botanical Facts: Named after Achilles of Greek mythology. A very popular, and ancient medicinal herb. Used as an astringent in cosmetics. The leaves of Achillea are said to relieve toothache! 

Description: Flowers form a flat, broad cluster of flowers with a slim stem. It is popular both fresh and dried and is a wild flower. It has a distinctive pepper fragrance. 

Types of Achillea

There are different types of achillea available on the flower markets. Varieties can vary in colours.

Colours: White, Yellow, Salmon, Red, Pink, Gold

Caring for Achillea

For purchasing, make sure to purchase flowers with heads in full colour with long sturdy stems.

For conditioning, remove all foliage as they wilt very quickly. Cut with a sharp knife and hydrate in water for with floral food for a couple of hours or overnight before storage or usage. Botrytis can be a concern with Yarrow. Use a commercial floral food / preservative which contains a biocide.

Popular flower to dry for flower arrangements. If drying Achillea, remove all foliage from the stems and hang up side down in small bunches in a dark, cool area with good air circulation. Drying can take 3-4 weeks to dry and can be used for up to a year.

Vase Life: 7 to 14 days

Stem Type: Soft

Storage: 2-4 degrees

Seasonal Availability

Availability: March to November, peaks: April to October

Substitution: Ammi Majus, Daucus Dara

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