Achillea 'Pomegranate' is a stunning perennial that brings an eye catching burst of color with its large clusters of deep red flowers. Its finely divided aromatic foliage has a silvery green hue that contrasts beautifully with its bold blooms, while its upright growth habit provides structure and texture.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early summer to fall (June to October)
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well-drained, moderately fertile to poor soil; tolerant of sandy, rocky, and dry conditions
Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High, due to aromatic, slightly bitter foliage
NATIVE STATUS
While the species Achillea millefolium is native to North America, Achillea 'Pomegranate' is a hybrid cultivar and not a direct native variety. However, it retains many of the beneficial qualities of its wild ancestor, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a pollinator friendly or native inspired garden.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
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This yarrow variety is particularly beneficial for attracting a range of butterflies such as Swallowtail butterflies, Red Admirals, Painted Ladies, and Skippers. The flat, clustered flowers are a perfect landing pad for these butterflies, who come to feed on the nectar and lay eggs.
Bees & Hoverflies
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Native bees and honeybees are strongly attracted to the rich nectar of the flower clusters. Bumblebees are also frequent visitors, collecting nectar that helps pollinate other plants in the garden. Hoverflies, which prey on aphids and other pests, are great in helping with natural pest control in the garden.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, all of which are natural predators of common garden pests like aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Birds
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After blooming, the plant produces seeds that provide a food source for small seed eating birds, such as goldfinches. Leaving the seed heads intact during fall and winter allows birds to forage during colder months when other food sources are scarce.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
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Space about 18 - 24 inches apart, allowing it room to spread naturally and ensuring good air circulation between plants. This also prevents overcrowding, which can reduce disease risk and allow for the plant’s best performance.
Landscape Placement
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This compact perennial is ideal for planting in front or middle garden beds or border plantings where its vibrant red flowers can stand out. It is a perfect choice for wildflower meadows, native plant gardens, and pollinator friendly landscapes. The plant also thrives in low maintenance gardens or xeriscapes, where its drought tolerance is a major benefit.
COMPANION PLANTS
- Echinacea (Coneflower) - The purple blooms of Echinacea create a beautiful contrast with Achillea 'Pomegranate' and attract similar pollinators, enhancing the overall pollinator appeal of the garden.
- Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan) - The cheerful yellow flowers of Rudbeckia provide a striking contrast to the red blooms of Achillea, and both plants attract butterflies, bees, and birds.
- Coreopsis (Tickseed) - The bright yellow flowers of Coreopsis pair beautifully with Achillea’s red, creating a warm, inviting palette that attracts a wide range of pollinators.
- Salvia (Sage) - The vertical spikes of blue or purple flowers on Salvia create an appealing contrast with the rounded flower heads of Achillea. Both plants are great for attracting bees and hummingbirds.
- Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) - Known for its fiery red and yellow blooms, Gaillardia pairs well with Achillea 'Pomegranate', creating a vibrant, butterfly-friendly garden.
- Lavender (Lavandula) - Lavender's silvery foliage and fragrant purple blooms provide a lovely contrast to Achillea’s red flowers, and both plants attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.