Achillea or Yarrow full sun attracts butterflies many colors xeriscape
Achillea millefolium 'Colorado' is a vigorous growing, long-flowering yarrow that can be used as a fresh and/or dried cut flower and as a bedding plant. This variety was introduced by Jelitto Perennial Seeds in 1993 and has been grown successfully in trials throughout the United States and Europe.

Plants produce flat heads of tightly clustered flowers. Colors include darker shades of red, pink and apricot as well as bright shades of yellow, terra-cotta beige and only a few whites compared to 'Summer Pastels.' The flowers attract butterflies and can also be dried for use as everlastings.

Dozens of flowers with 18- to 24-inch stems can be harvested over a three- to four-month period. Flowering can be extended for a longer period if plants are cut back to 4-6 inches above ground level at midseason. Plants should begin to reflower in five to seven weeks.

Plants can also be used in the landscape, as they produce both attractive flowers and frondlike, aromatic foliage. 'Colorado' can be planted together with Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus,' Pardancanda norrisii 'Dazzler,' Salvia lyrata 'Purple Knockout' and Polemonium boreale 'Heavenly Habit.'

Avoid placing plants in moist locations outdoors. They prefer infertile, well-drained soils in areas receiving full sun.

'Colorado' is an easy perennial to grow. From sow to flower in 4 1/2-inch pots takes three months.

Name: Achillea millefolium 'Colorado'
Crop timing: From sowing to flower takes three months in 4 1/2-inch pots.
Grower benefits: Easy to grow, can be sold as cut or perennial bedding plant.
Selling points: Use as fresh or dried cut flower and/or landscape plant with attractive, aromatic foliage. Flowers for three- to four-month period producing a wide range of flower colors. Plants can be cut back to permit reflowering. Can be used as accent plant or can be combined with other perennials in the landscape. Full sun plant that thrives in less than ideal growing conditions.