Achillea Millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta – A Colorful and Carefree Perennial

Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta is a beautiful perennial plant that deserves a spot in any sunny garden With its vibrant yellow blooms and carefree nature, this yarrow adds cheer and color from late spring through fall I’m excited to share all the details about growing this fantastic perennial in your own yard.

An Overview of Achillea Millefolium ‘Milly Rock’

Achillea millefolium is commonly known as yarrow, a perennial plant species native to Europe and Asia. It has fern-like, aromatic foliage and flat-topped clusters of flowers that bloom all summer long. The species name millefolium means “thousand leaves,” referring to its fine, lacy foliage.

The ‘Milly Rock’ series was bred by Florensis a company in the Netherlands. It offers improved qualities over typical yarrows including

• Compact, mounding habit

• Excellent mildew resistance

• Long bloom time, from late spring to fall

• Drought tolerance once established

‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta has bright golden yellow flowers that really catch the eye. This variety grows 10-12 inches tall and wide, making it perfect for containers or the front of sunny borders.

Growing Conditions for Achillea Millefolium

Achillea millefolium thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Like most yarrows, the ‘Milly Rock’ series is quite drought tolerant once established. Here are some tips for success:

• Sun: Full sun is required, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is ideal.

• Soil: Well-drained soil is critical. Yarrows will rot in heavy, boggy soil over winter. Average to sandy soil that drains readily is best.

• pH: Aim for a neutral pH around 6.5 to 7.0. Achillea tolerates a range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.

• Water: Water regularly until established, then reduce to occasional deep soakings. Too much moisture can lead to root rot.

• Hardiness: Rated for USDA Zones 4a to 9a. Withstands winter temps as low as -30°F. Mulch in very cold climates.

How to Grow Achillea Millefolium from Transplants

Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ is best grown from transplants, which are available at most garden centers in spring. Here’s how to get it established in your garden:

• Plant in spring after the last frost date for your area. Space plants 14-16 inches apart in an area with full sun and good drainage.

• Dig a hole twice as wide as the pot and the same depth. Gently loosen the roots and place in hole, keeping the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.

• Backfill with native soil, firming it around the plant to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

• Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch on the crowns.

• Water regularly for the first 2-3 months to establish an extensive root system. Then water only as needed during drought.

Caring for Achillea Millefolium

Once established, Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta is quite easy care:

• Fertilizer – Apply a balanced flowering plant fertilizer once per month during the growing season. Yarrows are light feeders and don’t require heavy fertilization.

• Pruning – Remove spent flower heads to encourage reblooming. Cut each stem back to a healthy leaf node. Leave some flowers for seed production and winter interest.

• Pests & Disease – Generally pest and disease free. Can be prone to powdery mildew in humid climates. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent mildew.

• Overwintering – Cut plants back to about one-third their height in late fall. Apply winter mulch after the ground freezes. Remove mulch in spring as new growth emerges.

How to Use Achillea Millefolium in the Landscape

Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta is a versatile perennial that lends long-lasting color to borders, beds, and containers:

• Use in mixed perennial borders, herb gardens, and pollinator gardens. Combines nicely with salvias, sedums, coreopsis, and ornamental grasses.

• Plant in mass for a bold splash of non-stop color. Space about 12-15 inches apart for a dense carpet of flowers.

• Add to sunny rock gardens, xeriscapes, and drainage swales where the drought tolerance is valued.

• Place in outdoor containers and window boxes on decks, patios, and entryways. Use a quality potting mix and allow soil to dry between waterings.

• Cut fresh or dried flowers for bouquets. The flat-topped blooms and lacy foliage add texture and a natural look to arrangements.

No matter where you plant it, Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta is sure to brighten your landscape with carefree yellow blooms and fine-textured foliage all season long. This tough yet beautiful perennial is a great choice for gardens in diverse climates. Add some to your yard this spring and enjoy the cheerful color for years to come.