Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’: Vibrant Fernleaf Yarrow with Impressive Clusters
Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’ also known as Yarrow ‘Gold Plate,’ Fernleaf Yarrow ‘Gold Plate,’ Milfoil, or Nosebleed, is a captivating herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to Central and Southwestern Asia, this plant showcases mustard-yellow flowers and stands tall at a height of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters).
Description: Impressive Clusters and Elegant Foliage
Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’ is a showy herbaceous perennial that delights with its long-lasting clusters of mustard-yellow flowers. These impressive clusters, reaching up to 6 inches (15 cm) in width, grace the plant from early to late summer. The blossoms, sitting atop erect leafy stems, create a beautiful contrast against the semi-evergreen, gray-green fern-like leaves. When crushed, the foliage emits a spicy aroma. Drought, heat, humidity, and deer-tolerant, this towering beauty is perfect for sunny borders, cottage gardens, or containers.
Cultivation: Growing Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’
Sun and Soil: Plant Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’ in full sun and well-drained soil. It tolerates most soil types except heavy or clay soils. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, especially during winter.
Watering: Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
Propagation: Divide clumps of Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’ every three to four years to maintain its health and vigor. Spring is the ideal time for division. Tidy up the foliage in spring as well.
Pests and Diseases: Watch out for aphids or powdery mildew, which can affect the plant. Take appropriate measures to control these issues promptly.
Winter Care: Cut the plant down to the ground in winter for rejuvenation.
Plant Characteristics and Benefits
Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’ features deeply-dissected, fern-like, and aromatic green leaves. Each leaf can reach up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length, divided into as many as 15 pairs of linear-lanceolate toothed segments. Rising above the foliage, stiff and erect stems support the plant’s tiny, bright golden flowers. These flowers, with yellow rays and discs, form dense flattened plate-like compound corymbs up to 4 inches (10 cm) across. The long summer bloom period can be extended by promptly removing faded flower heads.
The genus name Achillea is derived from Achilles, the hero of the Trojan Wars in Greek mythology. It is said that Achilles used this plant medicinally to stop bleeding and heal the wounds of his soldiers.
Height and Spread: This Yarrow cultivar can grow between 3 and 5 feet (90-150 cm) tall and spreads 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).
Versatile Garden Use: Achillea filipendulina ‘Gold Plate’ is a valuable addition to herbaceous borders, cottage gardens, meadows, or prairies. Its cut flowers are highly appreciated for their quality
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