Achillea mill. Cherry Queen

Achillea mill. Cherry Queen

Why Buy Me?

• Masses of tiny flower heads
• Long lasting blooms
• attractive to wildlife

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and strong, upright growth. Too much shade can result in leggy stems and fewer blooms.

Soil:
Well-drained soil. Thrives in sandy or loamy soils but tolerates poor, dry, or rocky soils. Avoid overly rich or wet soil, which can lead to floppiness or root rot. Prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

Exposure:
Performs well in both sheltered and exposed locations. Very hardy (USDA zones 3–9 / UK H7), making it suitable for a variety of climates and conditions, including windy sites.

Drought Tolerance:
High. Exceptionally drought-tolerant once established. Ideal for xeriscaping or low-water borders.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or autumn when the weather is mild. Spring planting allows the plant to establish well before its summer blooming period.

Spacing:
Space 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) apart. Grows to about 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) tall and 45 cm (18 inches) wide, forming upright clumps.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water moderately during establishment. Once established, water sparingly—only during extended drought. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive foliage and weak stems. A light spring feeding may be beneficial in very poor soils.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadhead faded blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering. Cut back the entire plant after flowering to promote a fresh flush of growth and potential reblooming. Prune back to the base in late autumn or early spring.

Propagation:
Easily propagated by division every 2–3 years in spring or autumn to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding. Can also be propagated by softwood cuttings or seed.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Finely divided, aromatic, fern-like green foliage emerges, forming a dense clump.

Summer:
From early to midsummer (June to August), clusters of deep cherry-red, flat-topped flower heads appear on strong, upright stems. These long-lasting blooms add vibrant colour and contrast well with silver or blue foliage.

Autumn:
Faded flower heads can be left for architectural interest or cut back to tidy up the plant. Foliage remains attractive into autumn, especially in mild climates.

Winter:
Deciduous in colder regions. Cut back stems in late winter or early spring. Dried flower heads may be left standing over winter for texture and wildlife value.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Dried seed heads may provide shelter for insects in winter. Deer and rabbit-resistant due to aromatic foliage.

Garden Use:
Perfect for sunny borders, wildflower gardens, prairie plantings, rock gardens, and cottage gardens. Also valued in cutting gardens—blooms are ideal for fresh or dried arrangements. Adds height and bold colour to the middle or back of the border.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses, Lavender, Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Salvia, Coreopsis, and Nepeta. The rich cherry-red blooms contrast well with yellow, purple, or white flowers for a dynamic summer display.

Transform your home and garden with the Achillea mill. Cherry Queen , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.