Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta is a gorgeous variety of yarrow that deserves a spot in any garden. With its compact habit, long bloom time, and heat and drought tolerance, this perennial has a lot to offer. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why ‘Milly Rock’ should be on your must-have plant list.
An Overview of Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta
- Scientific name: Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’
- Common name: Yarrow
- Hardiness: Zones 4-9
- Size: 10-12 inches tall and wide
- Habit: Compact, mounded
- Bloom time: Early summer to fall
- Flowers: Yellow, flat-topped clusters
- Key features:
- Long bloom time
- Compact, uniform habit
- Drought tolerant once established
- Attracts pollinators
The Details – Why Grow Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’
There are so many reasons why Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ deserves a spot in gardens Here are some of the top benefits of this variety
Long Bloom Season
One of the best features of ‘Milly Rock’ yarrow is its very long bloom time. The plants start blooming in early summer and will continue right through fall, often into the first frosts. The flowers are produced in dense flat-topped yellow clusters. Deadheading the spent blooms encourages more flower production.
Compact, Uniform Habit
Many yarrows have a tendency to flop open and look untidy, especially in hot and humid weather. But ‘Milly Rock’ has an upright, mounded habit that stays compact and tidy all season long. The plants grow consistently to 10-12 inches tall and wide.
Drought & Heat Tolerant
Once established, ‘Milly Rock’ yarrow is quite drought tolerant and can handle dry conditions Its ability to thrive in hot and humid summer weather is another big advantage over other yarrows that tend to melt out in heat.
Attracts Pollinators
The flat-topped flower clusters are magnets for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Growing ‘Milly Rock’ provides food and habitat for these important garden allies.
Deer & Rabbit Resistant
The fragrant foliage and flowers of yarrow are unappealing to deer and rabbits, so ‘Milly Rock’ is a great choice for gardens plagued by these hungry pests.
Versatile Usage
The compact habit and long bloom season of ‘Milly Rock’ make it perfect for containers and gardens. It works well in perennial borders, mixed containers, rock gardens, and more. The cut flowers are long-lasting in bouquets too.
How to Grow Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’
Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ is pretty easy to grow. Here are some tips for success:
- Sun: Full sun is required, at least 6 hours per day
- Soil: Average to dry, well-drained soil
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, avoid wet feet
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
- Spacing: Space plants 14-16 inches apart
- Hardiness: Rated for zones 4-9, hardy to -30F
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
- Pests & diseases: Generally trouble-free, may see some aphids
Propagation
‘Milly Rock’ yarrow is easily propagated from stem cuttings or by division in spring or fall. Take 3-4 inch stem tip cuttings, dip in rooting hormone, and stick in moist propagation mix. Maintain even moisture until roots form in 3-4 weeks. Or simply divide established plants in spring as new growth emerges.
Uses for Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ in the Garden
There are so many ways to utilize Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ in the garden:
- Containers – The compact habit makes it perfect for mixed containers and pot plantings
- Borders & beds – Use as an edging plant or interplant with other perennials
- Rock gardens – Combines nicely with other alpines and small perennials
- Cut flowers – The long-lasting blooms add texture and color to arrangements
- Xeriscaping – An excellent choice for low-water gardens and hellstrips
- Erosion control – Spreads nicely to hold soil on slopes and banks
- Herb gardens – Interplant with rosemary, thyme and other culinary herbs
No matter where it’s planted, ‘Milly Rock’ yarrow will attract bees, butterflies, and complimentary comments from garden visitors all season long.
Other Notable Achillea Varieties
Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ is just one of many excellent yarrow varieties for the garden. Here are a few others to consider:
- Achillea ‘Moonshine’ – Bright yellow, large flowers on sturdy stems
- Achillea ‘Terracotta’ – Rich terra cotta red blooms, more compact
- Achillea ‘Strawberry Seduction’ – Red-pink flowers with yellow centers
- Achillea ‘Summer Pastels’ – Mix of soft pastel yellow, pink and white
- Achillea ‘Vintage Violet’ – Deep violet purple blooms on sturdy stems
Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’: A Must-Have Perennial
With its long bloom season, compact habit, toughness and versatility, it’s easy to see why Achillea millefolium ‘Milly Rock’ Yellow Terracotta deserves a spot in any sunny garden. This beautiful yarrow variety thrives with minimal care and provides color from early summer into fall. For gardens that are eco-friendly, pollinator friendly and easy care, look no further than ‘Milly Rock’ yarrow. It’s sure to be a star in your landscape for years to come.
ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM ‘MILLY ROCK YELLOW TERRACOTTA’
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An introduction to Achilleas with John Cullen Gardens | The RHS
FAQ
Does Achillea millefolium like sun or shade?
Sun to partial shade, occasional to moderate water. Good habitat value, providing nectar for bees and butterflies. The foliage is deer resistant.
Does Achillea terracotta spread?
Achillea ‘Terracotta’ has beautiful blooms which open orange fading to yellow with age. It’s attractive to pollinators, particularly hoverflies. The plants spread slowly into sizeable clumps without becoming invasive.
Is Achillea millefolium invasive?
Yes, Achillea millefolium (common yarrow) can be invasive, particularly in certain environments.
What are the cons of growing yarrow?
Common Problems With Yarrow
Overwatering is the most common issue with this extremely drought tolerant plant, as roots soaked in water may rot, or fungus may move into the plant. To avoid this, always plant yarrow in well-drained soil and stick to the suggested watering schedule.