Pearl Yarrow (Achillea ptarmica) is a charming and versatile perennial herb, known for its beautiful white, double-layered flowers that resemble delicate pom-poms. Often referred to as the "Double Pearl" variety, this yarrow cultivar is perfect for adding texture and elegance to flower beds, borders, or wildflower gardens. The plant is easy to grow, low-maintenance, and thrives in a variety of soil conditions. Its aromatic foliage, along with its ability to attract pollinators, makes it a favorite among gardeners looking to add both beauty and functionality to their landscapes. In addition to its ornamental appeal, Yarrow has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries, further enhancing its value in the garden.

Key Features:

• 150 High-Quality Seeds: This packet contains 150 seeds, giving you ample opportunity to grow a stunning display of Pearl Yarrow flowers.
• Double White Flowers: The flowers feature multiple layers of pure white petals, giving them a fuller, more rounded appearance compared to other yarrow varieties.
• Attracts Pollinators: Pearl Yarrow is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in your garden and helping to boost local ecosystems.
• Low-Maintenance: Once established, this perennial is drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and requires minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners of all experience levels.
• Medicinal and Culinary Uses: Traditionally, Yarrow has been used for its medicinal properties, such as treating wounds and improving circulation. It can also be used in teas and other herbal preparations.

Growing Information:

• Light Requirements: Pearl Yarrow thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom profusely. It can tolerate partial shade but will produce fewer flowers in shadier spots.
• Soil Preferences: This plant is adaptable to various soil types, though it prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.5). Yarrow will tolerate poor soils and can even thrive in dry, rocky areas.
• Planting Tips:
  • Indoor Start: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Lightly press the seeds into the soil (do not cover them), as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C). Germination typically occurs in 10-14 days.
  • Outdoor Planting: After the last frost, sow seeds directly outdoors in prepared soil. Space the seeds 12-18 inches apart, as Yarrow can spread over time. Press the seeds lightly into the soil, water gently, and keep the area moist until germination.
• Watering Needs: Pearl Yarrow is drought-tolerant once established, but it does require consistent moisture during its first year of growth. Water the plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Once established, it can tolerate dry conditions and is well-suited for xeriscaping.
• Temperature: Yarrow is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9, making it suitable for most temperate climates. It can withstand cold winters and hot summers, with minimal care required.
• Fertilizing: Yarrow doesn’t require heavy fertilization. For the best growth, amend the soil with compost or organic matter at planting time. Avoid excessive fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth.
• Pruning and Care: Cut back the spent flowers to encourage new blooms, and remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy. Deadheading can also prolong the flowering period. Yarrow tends to spread over time, so regular division every 2-3 years may be needed to maintain its shape and prevent overcrowding.

Benefits:

• Attractive to Pollinators: Pearl Yarrow is a pollinator magnet, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden. This makes it an excellent choice for creating a pollinator-friendly garden or enhancing biodiversity.
• Long-Lasting Blooms: The double white flowers of this Yarrow variety bloom from early to late summer, offering a long-lasting display of beauty.
• Drought and Pest Tolerant: Once established, Pearl Yarrow is both drought-tolerant and resistant to many common garden pests, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners.
• Medicinal Uses: Yarrow has a long history of medicinal uses, such as its ability to help stop bleeding, improve circulation, and treat colds or fevers. The leaves and flowers can be used in herbal teas or infusions.
• Culinary Uses: While not as commonly used in cooking as other herbs, Yarrow’s leaves can be used in small amounts for flavoring or as an herbal tea ingredient.
• Versatile Garden Plant: Beyond its medicinal benefits, Yarrow is a versatile ornamental plant that pairs well with other wildflowers, perennial herbs, and ornamental grasses in the garden. It can be used in flower beds, cottage gardens, and even in rock gardens.

Growing Zones:
Pearl Yarrow is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9. It is tolerant of cold winters and can withstand summer heat, making it an adaptable plant for a variety of climates and garden types.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Pollinator Garden: Plant Pearl Yarrow to create a vibrant pollinator-friendly garden. Its abundant, fragrant flowers will attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
• Wildflower and Meadow Gardens: Use this low-maintenance plant in wildflower meadows, prairie gardens, or naturalized areas. Its white double flowers add texture and elegance when combined with other native wildflowers like Black-Eyed Susans, Coneflowers, and Liatris.
• Cottage Gardens: Pearl Yarrow’s soft white blooms and fern-like foliage make it a perfect addition to cottage-style gardens. It blends well with other romantic, informal plantings and adds a touch of rustic charm.
• Herb Gardens: For gardeners who appreciate both beauty and utility, Yarrow is a great choice for herb gardens. Its medicinal properties, aromatic leaves, and ability to grow with minimal care make it a valuable herb to have on hand.
• Cut Flowers: The flowers of Pearl Yarrow are excellent for fresh and dried floral arrangements. Their full, pom-pom-like shape adds texture and volume to bouquets and vases.

Conclusion:
Pearl Yarrow (Achillea ptarmica) is an elegant and low-maintenance perennial that brings beauty, pollinator support, and medicinal value to your garden. With its distinctive double white flowers and fern-like foliage, it adds texture and charm to any landscape. This hardy, drought-tolerant herb is ideal for a variety of garden types, including wildflower meadows, herb gardens, and pollinator-friendly spaces. With 150 seeds in this packet, you'll have plenty of opportunities to grow this versatile and beautiful plant, and enjoy its long-lasting blooms and numerous benefits for years to come.