Achillea - Cottage Yarrow

Common Names: Achillea - Cottage Yarrow

Botanical names: Achillea, (ah-kil-LEE-ah)

Availability: July through September

Vase life: 10 to 14 days

Storage temperatures: 34 to 36 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: Yes

Description: Clusters of tiny florets that make up a nearly flat, slightly rounded flower head at the end of a stem with feathery foliage.

Color: Yellow, white, pink, red, rust

Botanical facts: Named after Achilles of Greek mythology. A very popular, and ancient medicinal herb. Used as an astringent in cosmetics.

Design notes: An excellent addition to mixed summer arrangements.

Purchasing hints: Purchase Achillea flowers with heads in full color and long, sturdy stems.

Conditioning: Remove all leaves as they wilt very quickly. Cut with as sharp knife. Hydrate in water for two hours before storage or usage. Use commercial floral preservative / food.

Additional notes: Botrytis can be a concern with Cottage Yarrow flowers. Use a commercial floral food / preservative which contains a biocide. Bleach can be used as a biocide in very small amounts. Storage / vase water needs to changed every other day. Yarrow is easy to dry and is an excellent dried product.