Achillea 'Little Moonshine'

Achillea 'Little Moonshine': All the Glow, None of the Flop

The original 'Moonshine' is gorgeous, but one thunderstorm and it's face down on the lawn like it hit the open bar at a wedding. 'Little Moonshine' holds its liquor. SAME GLOW. HALF THE HEIGHT. ZERO DRAMA.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Achillea 'ACBZ0002', sold as Little Moonshine
• Common Name: Yarrow
• Height: 30–35 cm (12–14 in)
• Spread: 35–40 cm (14–16 in)
• Flowers: Bright lemon-yellow, in flat-topped clusters
• Bloom Time: Early summer to late summer (June to September)
• Foliage: Silvery grey-green, finely cut and aromatic, in a non-spreading clump
• Features: Compact, rabbit resistant, good for cutting
• Plant Patent: USPP 28,179

Where to Plant: Front of a sunny border, along a path, in a rock garden or in a patio pot. It's at its best in hot, dry spots with lean, well-drained soil, like the strip along a sunny driveway, and it's compact enough for the smallest city yard.

Companion Plants: Edge this compact yarrow with Sedum 'Red Carpet', a low mat of red flowers through the summer. Salvia 'Blue Hill' stands a little taller with blue spikes from June to September, the perfect match for clear yellow. Behind them, Panicum Prairie Winds® 'Cheyenne Sky' grows to 90 cm and adds a grassy backdrop from August into October. All three want full sun, just like the yarrow.

Plant Care: Plant in full sun and well-drained, average to lean soil. Sandy soil is fine. Avoid rich soil and heavy feeding. Wet clay over winter is the main thing it won't forgive. Water regularly the first season, then only during long droughts. Remove faded flower clusters to keep new blooms coming through summer. Cut the plant back in late fall or early spring. Divide in spring every few years if the centre thins out.

History: Bred by Har Stemkens and introduced by Blooms of Bressingham®, the nursery behind the original 'Moonshine' from the 1950s. The genus is named for Achilles, who in Greek legend used yarrow to treat his soldiers' wounds.

Final Thoughts: Small yard, balcony pot, a neighbour who judges your staking? Plant three and let the silver do the talking. THE ONLY MOONSHINE YOUR CONDO BOARD WILL APPROVE.