Golden-yarrow
Eriophyllum confertiflorum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant golden-yarrow: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Eriophyllum with clustered flowers, Woolly daisy
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Type
- Annual to perennial herbaceous plant depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-August)
- Mature size
- 20-40 cm tall, bushy habit
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Hardy in warm climates, sensitive to intense cold
- Origin
- Western United States (California, semi-arid regions)
Care
Exposure
Place this plant in full sun, for a minimum of 6 to 8 hours per day. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions typical of its native habitat. A very bright location promotes generous flowering and a compact habit.
Watering
Water moderately and let the soil dry out between waterings. This herbaceous plant tolerates drought well once established. Avoid excess moisture which can cause root rot, particularly in pots or poorly drained soil.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-draining, light, and poor to average soil. A light mix with sand or gravel improves drainage. This plant adapts well to chalky and poor soils, characteristic of its natural habitat.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous flowering. Light spring pruning can help maintain a bushy habit. Generally low maintenance, it thrives on its own if conditions are optimal.
Fertilizer
Apply diluted, balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers. A robust plant that prefers poor soils to excessive feeding.
Diseases and pests
Generally hardy and not prone to diseases. Watch for aphids and spider mites in dry climates, which can be controlled by water spraying. Stagnant moisture can encourage powdery mildew; ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
Eriophyllum confertiflorum owes its name to the Greek word 'erion' (wool) because of its finely pubescent, velvety leaves. This plant is a valuable asset for sustainable landscaping in California's dry regions, where it revitalizes arid ecosystems with its bright yellow flowers while feeding local bees and pollinators.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.