Updated: July 17, 2023

Introduction

Yarrow plants (Achillea millefolium) are not only beautiful additions to any garden, but they also have a wide range of medicinal properties. These hardy perennials come in various sizes, making it important to choose the right size for your specific needs and gardening space. In this article, we will explore different yarrow plant sizes and guide you in selecting the perfect one for your garden.

Compact Varieties

Compact yarrow varieties are excellent choices for small gardens, container gardening, or border planting. These plants typically reach a height of 10-18 inches (25-45 cm) and have a spread of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm). Their small size makes them ideal for tight spaces or for adding color and texture to rock gardens.

One popular compact variety is ‘Paprika’, which features vibrant red flowers and fern-like foliage. Another option is ‘Moonshine’, known for its striking silver-gray leaves and bright yellow flowers. These compact yarrow plants are perfect if you want to create a low-maintenance yet eye-catching display.

Medium-Sized Varieties

Medium-sized yarrow plants offer a balance between compactness and height. They are versatile enough to be used in various garden designs and can reach heights between 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) with a spread of 18-30 inches (45-75 cm).

‘Coronation Gold’ is a classic medium-sized yarrow variety that showcases stunning golden-yellow flowers atop fern-like foliage. It adds a touch of elegance to any garden and attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees. Another popular option is ‘Saucy Seduction’, which displays deep red flowers with a hint of pink.

These medium-sized yarrow plants work well as border plants, providing structure and color to your garden beds. They also make fantastic cut flowers, allowing you to bring a piece of your garden indoors.

Tall Varieties

If you have ample space or want to create a dramatic focal point in your garden, tall yarrow varieties are the way to go. These plants can reach impressive heights between 24-48 inches (60-120 cm) with a spread of 18-36 inches (45-90 cm).

One standout tall yarrow variety is ‘Colorado Mix’. This mix features vibrant blooms in shades of red, pink, yellow, and white, creating a stunning display of color. ‘Cerise Queen’ is another tall yarrow variety that produces striking magenta flowers atop feathery foliage.

Tall yarrow plants work well when planted at the back of borders or as standalone specimens. They add vertical interest and can attract attention from a distance. Additionally, their height makes them visible to pollinators, ensuring they are not overlooked by beneficial insects.

Factors to Consider

When selecting the right yarrow plant size for your garden, there are several factors to consider:

Space Availability

Assess the available space in your garden and determine how much room you can allocate for yarrow plants. Compact varieties are suitable for small gardens or container gardening, while taller varieties require more open space.

Garden Design

Consider your overall garden design and what role the yarrow plants will play. Are you looking for a low-maintenance ground cover or an eye-catching centerpiece? Knowing your garden’s style and purpose will help you determine the appropriate size of yarrow plants to include.

Maintenance Effort

Different-sized yarrow plants require varying levels of maintenance. Compact varieties generally require less pruning and deadheading compared to taller ones. If you prefer a low-maintenance garden, compact or medium-sized yarrow plants may be more suitable.

Desired Impact

Think about the impact you want the yarrow plants to have in your garden. Do you want them to create a subtle backdrop or steal the show with their height and color? The size of the yarrow plants will significantly contribute to the overall impact they make in your garden.

Conclusion

Choosing the right yarrow plant size is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality in your garden. Whether you opt for compact, medium-sized, or tall varieties, yarrow plants are sure to add beauty and charm to any garden space. Consider your available space, garden design, maintenance preferences, and desired impact to make an informed decision. With the right yarrow plant size, your garden will flourish with these versatile and resilient plants.