Achillea 'Moonshine' is a vibrant, easy care perennial that combines beauty with practicality, making it a standout choice for gardeners looking to support wildlife while minimizing maintenance. Its striking soft yellow blooms appear in flat clusters that stand tall above finely dissected silver gray foliage.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: June to September
Light Requirement: Full sun
Soil Preference: Prefers well drained, moderately fertile to poor soil types, including sandy or gravelly soils
Watering Needs: Drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping
Deer Resistance: Not favored by deer or rabbits due to its strong aroma and tough foliage
Native Status
The species Achillea millefolium is native to North America, and Achillea 'Moonshine' is a cultivar of this species. While it is a cultivated variety, it retains many of the beneficial characteristics of its native ancestor, making it suitable for native and pollinator gardens.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- The flat topped clusters are an excellent landing platform for nectar feeding butterflies such as Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Red Admiral, Cabbage Whites, and Painted Ladies. These butterflies are drawn to the bright, showy flowers for both feeding and egg laying.
Bees & Hoverflies
-
The abundance of nectar also attracts native bees, including bumblebees and solitary bees, which are crucial for pollination. Additionally, hoverflies are attracted to the flowers, helping control aphid populations and other pests in the garden.
Beneficial Insects
- Ladybugs, lacewing larvae, and predatory wasps frequently visit, aiding in the natural control of aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects, reducing the need for pesticides. The plant’s aromatic leaves can also provide shelter for smaller insects, including predatory beetles.
Birds
- In fall, the seeds from the spent flower heads attract goldfinches and other small seed eating birds, making it a valuable plant throughout the year. Leaving the seed heads on through winter can also provide winter interest while feeding wildlife.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
-
To ensure adequate air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases, space plants about 18 - 24 inches apart. This allows them to mature into full clumps with enough room to grow and spread naturally.
Landscape Placement
-
Use as a mid border or front of the border plant in garden beds. Its compact size makes it a perfect filler for wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, or xeriscapes. Plant it in naturalistic groupings for a cohesive, butterfly friendly display. It works well alongside other drought-tolerant perennials and grasses, adding color and texture without competing for resources.
Companion Plants
-
Lavender (Lavandula) - Both plants are aromatic and attract similar pollinators, creating a harmonious, pollinator rich garden.
-
Coneflower (Echinacea) - With similar growth habits, coneflowers pair nicely with yarrow to create a vibrant, diverse pollinator garden.
-
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) - The bold yellow flowers of Black-eyed Susans complement the paler yellow blooms of 'Moonshine', adding variety to a garden.
-
Catmint (Nepeta) - Catmint’s fragrant, silvery foliage complements the leaves of 'Moonshine' and provides a continuous nectar source for bees.
-
Coreopsis (Coreopsis) - This cheerful long blooming flower pairs well with yarrow, offering additional color and attracting similar pollinators.