Fern-leaf Yarrow 'Altgold' is a sun-loving perennial native to the Caucasus, Iran, and Afghanistan that transforms any garden with its striking golden flowers and feathery foliage. Growing 36 to 48 inches tall in hardiness zones 3 through 8, this upright, clump-forming yarrow produces dense, flat-topped flower clusters from June through September that are excellent for cutting fresh or drying. The deeply dissected, fern-like leaves reach 10 inches long and exhale a spicy aroma when brushed, while the tiny golden flowers persist for weeks, making this a low-maintenance perennial that thrives on neglect once established.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-8
48in H x 36in W
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Low
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The golden flower plates bloom from early summer through fall, persisting long enough to serve as both fresh and dried cut material. Fine, aromatic foliage creates an attractive basal mound even when flowers fade, and the plant actively resists deer while tolerating hot summers and drought with ease. Hardy from zone 3 through 8, it demands little beyond well-drained soil and full sun, making it one of those rare plants that looks richer and more defined as conditions get leaner.
Fern-leaf Yarrow serves two primary roles in gardens. Its flowers are highly valued for cutting fresh and arrange beautifully in mixed bouquets, remaining vibrant for extended periods indoors. The blooms also dry exceptionally well for dried arrangements and winter crafts, retaining their golden color without fading. In the landscape, it works well in naturalized plantings where its airy, architectural form adds texture and movement to borders and meadow gardens.
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Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost at soil temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds germinate readily at these temperatures and benefit from transplanting to larger containers before moving outdoors.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before transplanting outdoors after the last frost date. Space plants 18 to 36 inches apart to allow room for their mature width. Transplant into full sun locations with well-drained soil.
Cut flower stems for fresh arrangements when the flower plates are fully developed and showing their bright golden color. For drying, harvest flowers at peak color and hang them upside down in a dry, airy location out of direct sunlight until completely crispy, typically requiring 2 to 3 weeks depending on humidity.
Deadhead spent flower heads back to lateral buds throughout the growing season to promote continued bloom and a bushier form. After flowering ends in fall, cut the entire plant back to its basal leaves at ground level to tidy the planting, remove dead growth, and encourage vigorous regrowth the following spring.
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“Achillea filipendulina is native to mountainous regions of the Caucasus, Iran, and Afghanistan, where it evolved to thrive in harsh, dry conditions. The 'Altgold' cultivar emerged from this hardy species stock, selected for its consistently bright golden color and upright habit. The plant carries a name rooted in classical history, derived from Achilles of Greek mythology, who reputedly used yarrow to heal wounds, though this ornamental form is grown for garden splendor rather than medicinal application.”