Moonshine Yarrow

Moonshine Yarrow
Moonshine yarrow is believed to be a hybrid of the fernleaf yarrow and another
species. This plant has been around since the 1950s. At this point, I would consider it a classic if not an heirloom variety.

This yarrow remains very popular both as a cut and dried flower as well as a perennial for borders and herb gardens. It was introduced by Alan Bloom of Bressingham Gardens in England. This received an award of garden merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Star Roses describes Moonshine yarrow as “the best perennial for hot sunny dry locations.” It has also been described as the best yellow flowered yarrow.

The only negative thing one can say about the plant is that it tends to be rather short lived in the South. For that reason, experts recommend treating it as an annual in hot humid areas. Around two to three years is about its limit in the region.

Moonshine yarrow is considered an outstanding choice for the landscape. Both the blossoms and the lovely foliage add beauty to the garden. The fern-like, scented, soft gray-green to silvery gray leaves give the plant a frosty look. The evergreen foliage is delicate looking and feathery.

This hybrid is considered the best yarrow with gray to silver foliage. It bears a resemblance to Coronation Gold yarrow except for the flower color and the size of the plant.

This perennial is recommended for zones 3 through 7. It requires good drainage. The plant is considered a compact, space saving choice when compared to some larger varieties. A spacing of 20 inches between plants is suggested.

One advantage that Moonshine yarrow offers is the fact that the flower color is easier to coordinate with other plants in the landscape due to the fact that the yellow isn’t as intensely colored as some.

Moonshine yarrow is a sturdy, well branched, robust, clump forming plant. Typically 2 feet tall, it can sometimes be up to 3 feet in height. It is one to 2 feet wide. The stems rarely need staking.

Tolerant of frost, this free flowering plant blooms from May through October in warm areas. Elsewhere, flowering begins a little later.

The flower heads, which can contain up to 30 blossoms, are flat and face upwards. The flower stems can reach 3 ½ feet in height. Borne in clusters, the scented blooms can vary slightly in color.

Attracting butterflies, the blossoms can be canary yellow or yellow gold to golden yellow. These large flower heads are 3 to 5 inches across and are very long lasting. To keep the plant blooming, cut the stems back as needed.






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