Summer Pastels primarily refers to 'Achillea millefolium 'Summer Pastels'', a specific and highly sought-after cultivar of Yarrow (also known as common yarrow) renowned for its remarkably diverse and soft pastel-colored flowers.
This exceptional plant offers a vibrant, yet gentle, aesthetic to gardens, making it a favorite among horticulturists and home gardeners alike.
Key Characteristics of Achillea millefolium 'Summer Pastels'
Achillea millefolium 'Summer Pastels' is a stunning Yarrow with masses of long-lasting flower clusters, up to 8 inches wide (20 cm), in glorious shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, salmon, lilac, purple, and white. Its name perfectly encapsulates its defining feature: a soft palette of pastel-colored flowers that evoke the gentle warmth of summer.
This variety is celebrated not only for its beautiful appearance but also for its robust nature and ease of care.
Floral Attributes:
- Color Palette: A truly unique mix encompassing glorious shades of:
- Red
- Pink
- Yellow
- Orange
- Salmon
- Lilac
- Purple
- White
These colors often appear in varying hues and combinations within the same plant, creating a dynamic display.
- Cluster Size: Flower clusters are impressively large, reaching up to 8 inches (20 cm) in width.
- Longevity: The blooms are long-lasting, providing extended periods of color in the garden and as cut flowers.
Why Choose 'Summer Pastels' Yarrow?
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, 'Summer Pastels' offers several practical benefits for gardeners:
- Drought Tolerance: Like most Yarrow varieties, it is highly tolerant of drought once established, making it suitable for low-water gardens.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flat-topped flower clusters are attractive to a variety of beneficial insects, including butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, naturalized areas, and especially effective in cutting gardens due to its long-lasting blooms.
'Summer Pastels' at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Cultivar of Achillea millefolium (Common Yarrow) |
| Flower Colors | Red, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Salmon, Lilac, Purple, White (a soft pastel palette) |
| Flower Size | Up to 8 inches (20 cm) wide clusters |
| Bloom Time | Summer (with long-lasting flower clusters) |
| Key Attribute | Stunning, massed, long-lasting flower clusters in glorious pastel shades, known for its soft palette and impressive size, making it an excellent choice for adding continuous color and texture throughout the summer season. |
For optimal growth, 'Summer Pastels' thrives in full sun exposure and requires well-drained soil.
