Origin
Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson is a subspecies of the commonly known plant, Yarrow. Yarrow is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America and other continents. Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson, specifically, is found along the coast of California, primarily from San Francisco to San Diego.
Common Names
Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson is commonly referred to as Coastal Yarrow or Sea Yarrow. It is also known as Western Yarrow.
Uses
The plant has a variety of uses, including medicinal and culinary purposes. The leaves of Coastal Yarrow can be used to make teas and infusions that are known to aid digestion and soothe stomach ailments. The plant contains flavonoids and alkaloids that are believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. In addition to medicinal uses, Coastal Yarrow is used in the culinary world as a flavoring agent for soups, stews, and sauces. Its leaves can also be added to salads for a unique flavor.
General Appearance
Coastal Yarrow is a herbaceous perennial plant that has fern-like leaves with a feathery texture. The leaves are typically 3-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. Its flowers are tiny and white or pink in color. The plant typically grows to be about 1-2 feet tall and wide. Coastal Yarrow prefers to grow in full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate partial shade. It is often found growing wild along rocky cliffs and sand dunes near the coast.
Light
The Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson prefers full sun to grow best. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to prevent the plant from getting leggy and weak.
Temperature
The plant is hardy and can withstand temperatures ranging between -40 to 90°F (-40 to 32°C). It can adapt to different growing temperatures, but it grows best in regions with a temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Soil requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining sandy loam with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The soil should have organic matter content and be free of weeds, insects, and diseases.
Cultivation
Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson, commonly known as seaside yarrow, is an herbaceous perennial plant that grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-9. It prefers to be grown in full sun and well-drained soil.
When starting from seed, it's best to plant indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. If transplanting, do so in the early spring or fall. Seaside yarrow can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Watering needs
Seaside yarrow is drought-tolerant and can go for extended periods without water. However, for optimal growth and blooms, it's best to water regularly and deeply, especially during its first year of growth. Once established, it will require less frequent watering.
During drought-like conditions, make sure to provide additional water to ensure the plant remains healthy.
Fertilization
Seaside yarrow doesn't require much fertilization, but adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil during the growing season can help promote healthy growth of foliage and flowers.
It's also recommended to feed the plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a year in early spring or fall, though it's not necessary for its survival.
Pruning
Regular pruning of the seaside yarrow plant will help to promote healthy growth and prevent it from overtaking its location. Deadheading the flowers is recommended to encourage more blooms throughout the growing season. Additionally, removing old leaves and stems will help to prevent disease and pests.
Cut the plant back to around 6 inches above the ground level in late fall or early winter to encourage new growth in the coming spring. This should be done every few years to prevent the plant from becoming woody and unproductive.
Propagation of Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson
Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson, commonly known as seaside yarrow, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to coastal areas of California and Oregon, but can also be found in other regions with similar climate and soil conditions. There are different methods for propagating seaside yarrow, including:
Seed Propagation
Seaside yarrow can be propagated from seeds, which can be gathered from mature flower heads. The collected seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place until it is time to plant them. Plant the seeds in a seed-starting tray filled with potting mix, and keep the soil moist. The seeds will germinate in about one to two weeks, and can be transplanted to the garden when they are large enough to handle.
Division
Seaside yarrow can also be propagated by division, which involves digging up an established clump and dividing it into smaller sections. The best time to divide seaside yarrow is in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing. Carefully dig up the clump and use a sharp knife to cut it into smaller sections, each with a healthy root system and several shoots. Replant the divisions in a well-prepared bed in the garden, and water them well until they become established.
Cuttings
Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson can also be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or summer. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy plant, making sure it has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with potting soil, and water it well. Keep the pot in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight. The cutting should root in about three to four weeks, and can be transplanted to the garden when it is large enough to handle.
Disease and Pest Management for Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson
Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson, commonly known as the seaside yarrow or yarrow milfoil, is a popular plant among gardeners due to its hardiness, low maintenance, and tolerance to a variety of environmental conditions. However, this plant can still be affected by various pests and diseases that can damage its health and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that usually affects the leaves of Achillea millefolium, causing a white powdery coating on the surface of the leaves. This disease usually occurs during warm, humid weather. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove the infected leaves, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used for severe cases.
Crown and Stem Rot: Crown and stem rot is a fungal disease that affects the crowns and stems of Achillea millefolium, causing the plant to wilt and die. This disease is caused by overly wet soil or poor drainage. To manage crown and stem rot, it is recommended to improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial Leaf Spot: Bacterial leaf spot is a disease caused by a bacterium called Xanthomonas campestris that affects the leaves of Achillea millefolium, causing small water-soaked spots that later turn brown or black. To manage bacterial leaf spot, it is recommended to remove infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper fungicides.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves of Achillea millefolium. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can feed on the leaves of Achillea millefolium, causing yellowing and stippling. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to increase humidity around the plant, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove heavily infested leaves.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can feed on the leaves and stems of Achillea millefolium, causing irregular holes and damage. To manage slugs and snails, it is recommended to handpick them from the plant, use slug and snail bait, or create a barrier around the plant using copper tape or diatomaceous earth.
By managing the diseases and pests that affect Achillea millefolium L. var. maritima Jepson, gardeners can ensure their plants remain healthy and attractive throughout the growing season.
