Siberian Yarrow
Achillea sibirica

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Achillea sibirica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Height (m): 0.5

Where it is found

Meadows, gardens, sandy slopes and dry areas.

E. Asia - China, Japan. North-western N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young shoots and leaves - cooked.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The whole plant is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, odontalgic, stomachic and tonic. A decoction is used in the treatment of abscesses, abdominal cramps, amenorrhoea, bleeding, falls, snakebite and stomach ulcers. A poultice of the chewed root can be applied to gum sores.

Antibacterial: Kills bacteria.

Antiinflammatory: Reduces inflammation of joints, injuries etc.

Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Emmenagogue: Promotes or increases the menstrual flow. In early stages of pregnancy it can induce an abortion.

Odontalgic: Treats toothache (temporary measure only) and other problems of the teeth and gums.

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in most soils but prefers a well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants succeed in maritime gardens. They live longer when growing in a poor soil. A very ornamental plant. Polymorphic. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or early autumn in a cold frame. The seed usually germinates in 1 - 3 months. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, the divisions can be planted direct into their permanent positions. Basal cuttings of new shoots in spring. Very easy, collect the shoots when they are about 10cm tall, potting them up individually in pots and keeping them in a warm but lightly shaded position. They should root within 3 weeks and will be ready to plant out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 5-9

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. alpina. L. A. mongolica. Fisch.