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Description
Achillea Setacea, commonly known as Bristly Yarrow, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. The plant grows up to 60cm tall and has a sturdy stem with grey-green leaves. The flowers bloom in late spring and summer and are usually white or cream-colored.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Achillea |
Appearance
The Bristly Yarrow has grey-green leaves that are about 5cm long and 3cm wide. The stem is sturdy and covered with fine hairs that give it a bristly texture. The flowers are arranged in flat clusters that are about 10cm in diameter. The individual flowers are about 2-3mm in diameter and have white or cream-colored petals. The plant blooms in late spring and summer, and the flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Bristly Yarrow is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its fertility.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the plant gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Bristly Yarrow is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
- Aphids: These small insects can be easily washed off with a strong stream of water.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
- Root Rot: This can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
The Bristly Yarrow is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in dry and rocky habitats. It can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, making it a great plant for xeriscaping. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and wounds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Bristly Yarrow in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Bristly Yarrow in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the plant gets enough sunlight.
Q: Can I propagate Bristly Yarrow from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate Bristly Yarrow from cuttings in the spring or fall. Take a cutting that is about 10cm long and has a few leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with moist soil. Keep the pot in a warm and bright location until the cutting roots.
Q: Can I use Bristly Yarrow in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of Bristly Yarrow can be used in salads or as a flavoring for soups and stews. The plant has a bitter taste and a strong aroma.
Q: How often should I prune Bristly Yarrow?
A: You can prune Bristly Yarrow in the fall after the plant has finished blooming. Cut the stems back to about 10cm from the ground to encourage new growth in the spring.
Related Plants
- Achillea Millefolium (Common Yarrow)
- Achillea Ptarmica (Sneezewort Yarrow)
- Achillea Filipendulina (Fernleaf Yarrow)
References
- “Achillea Setacea.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/achilleset.htm.
- “Achillea Setacea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19056/achillea-setacea/details.
- “Bristly Yarrow – Achillea Setacea.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/yarrow/bristly-yarrow-achillea-setacea.htm.
