Achillea tomentosa, commonly known as Woolly Yarrow, is a low growing, spreading perennial that brings soft texture and warm color into the landscape. It’s a great choice for filling in spaces while maintaining a natural, cohesive look.

The foliage is finely divided and covered in soft, woolly hairs, giving it a gray green to silvery appearance. This texture adds a muted, calming tone that blends well with other drought tolerant plants.

In late spring through summer, it produces flat clusters of bright yellow flowers that sit just above the foliage. The blooms create a cheerful contrast against the soft, silvery base.

It has a spreading, groundcover habit, making it ideal for borders, rock gardens, slopes, or areas where you want to cover ground with something low maintenance.

Achillea tomentosa grows best in full sun and requires well drained soil. Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and performs well in dry, lean conditions.

It typically reaches about 6 to 12 inches tall and spreads 1 to 2 feet wide or more, forming a dense, low mat. It is well suited for USDA zones 3 through 9, however it is also seen thriving here in Southern California which is why we have included zone 10. The foliage is evergreen to semi evergreen depending on climate.

This plant has low toxicity and is generally safe for gardens with pets and children.

The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

It is generally deer resistant.

Achillea tomentosa fits especially well into Mediterranean, rock garden, and naturalistic designs, where its texture and color can be used to soften edges and fill in planting gaps.

It pairs well with plants Nepeta, Festuca 'Elija Blue' to reinforce cool toned contrast, and Sedum reflexum ‘Blue Spruce’ to add a complementary, drought tolerant ground layer.

Expert Tip:

Place this in full sun and lean soil, because it performs best in dry conditions and can become overly lush in rich soil. Light trimming and deadheading after flowering will help keep it compact and encourage a fresh appearance.

— Nick from Rooted Theory