Red Velvet Yarrow

Achillea millefolium 'Red Velvet' is a vigorous, mat-forming yarrow with finely divided foliage and flat heads of rose-red flowers. RHS reports flowering throughout summer, and High Country Gardens describes the deep rose-red blooms as fade-resistant above fine-textured green foliage. ([RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/161992/achillea-millefolium-red-velvet/details), [High Country Gardens](https://www.highcountrygardens.com/products/perennial-achillea-red-velvet)) ## Garden use Use it in sunny borders, prairie-style plantings, or a waterwise garden, allowing the mat to spread. Its flower stems can be cut or dried, and the blooms attract bees and butterflies. [Virginia Cooperative Extension](https://turf.spes.vt.edu/content/pubs_ext_vt_edu/en/426/426-211/426-211.html) includes this cultivar in a yarrow selection group listed at 24–30 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide, for full sun to part shade. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun and well-drained soil; RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand, while High Country Gardens also lists average, clay, and sandy soils. High Country Gardens recommends low water after establishment and reports drought tolerance, with zones 3–9. The RHS profile gives broader mature dimensions of 0.5–1 m, so size varies among sources and sites. ## Maintenance Remove faded heads to encourage rebloom, and cut back untidy foliage in spring. Avoid overly rich soil or frequent watering, which can make yarrows floppy; establish the plant before reducing irrigation.