Product Description
Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' PP31756 (25) Bare Root Plants
Common Name: Yarrow
If you're not familiar with Achillea ptarmica, this species is unique from what you'd expect from the classic A. millefolium types. 'Peter Cottontail' has a look that's reminiscent of Baby's Breath, with large, ivory white flowers that are produced over a low, mounding habit of green foliage. Compared to A. millefolium types, the flower clusters on this perennial are more singular and well-spaced-great for adding texture to the garden! Compared to other A. ptarmica types on the market, this perennial has larger individual flowers and a more polished habit. Although this perennial is named after a fictional rabbit, 'Peter Cottontail', it is mostly unbothered by both deer and rabbits.
Yarrow is one of the easiest perennials to grow and is a good choice for beginners. All it needs is full sun and well-drained soil. These plants are an excellent balance of finely textured foliage and bright flower colors. The wide, flat flower clusters are popular landing pads with pollinators.
Yarrow is one of the easiest perennials to grow and is a good choice for beginners. All it needs is full sun and well-drained soil. It thrives in average to poor soil and is drought tolerant once established. Plants grown in rich soil tend to be tall and floppy. After the flowers have faded, cut the plant back by half. This will likely stimulate a second flush of blooms in late summer.
Height: 18.0-24.0 Inches
Spread: 28.0-30.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8
Flower Color: White Shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Poor to Average Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer to Early Fall
Long Blooming
Attracts Butterflies
Bee Friendly
Deer Resistant
Rabbit Resistant
Growth Rate: Rapid
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Drought Tolerant, Easy To Grow, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant
Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' is a charming and versatile perennial that adds a touch of whimsy to any garden. With its fluffy white flowers resembling tiny bunny tails, it is no wonder this plant has become a favorite among gardeners. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail'.
Achillea ptarmica, commonly known as sneezewort or sneezeweed, is a Eurasian species of herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the genus Achillea. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate various growing conditions. The name "ptarmica" comes from the Greek word "ptairo," meaning "sneeze," as the plant was historically used to induce sneezing. In fact, this plant has a long history of use in herbal medicine, where it was employed for its numbing and tingling effects to relieve toothaches and ulcers.
This plant features loose clusters of showy white composite flower heads that bloom from June to August. Its dark green leaves have finely toothed margins and release an aromatic scent when crushed. Interestingly, the sneezewort's pattern of development follows the Fibonacci sequence.
Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' is a specific variety of sneezewort that stands out with its unique characteristics. It produces masses of fluffy, ivory blooms that resemble Baby's Breath. The flowers are larger than those of other Achillea ptarmica varieties, adding to their visual appeal. This cultivar is hardy in zones 3-8. It forms a low mound of green foliage, typically reaching a height of 18-24 inches and a spread of 28-30 inches.
One of the most notable features of 'Peter Cottontail' is its resistance to deer and rabbits, which is somewhat ironic given its name. This makes it an excellent choice for gardeners who struggle with these animals in their gardens. Additionally, 'Peter Cottontail' attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem.
Caring for Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers average to dry conditions and dislikes excessive moisture. Here is a detailed guide on how to care for this lovely perennial:
- Light Provide 'Peter Cottontail' with at least 5 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate some light shade but will perform best in full sun.
- Soil Plant 'Peter Cottontail' in well-drained soil with average to low fertility. Avoid heavy clay or overly rich soil, as these can lead to root rot or make the plant floppy.
- Water While 'Peter Cottontail' is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it still requires regular watering to thrive. Ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizer Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become floppy.
- Pruning Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back the plant by half after flowering to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
- Pests and Diseases Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, keep an eye out for aphids and powdery mildew. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.
Uses Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' is not only a beautiful garden plant but also an excellent cut flower. Its long stems and fluffy white flowers make it a lovely addition to fresh bouquets. The flowers also dry well, making them suitable for everlasting arrangements.
Achillea ptarmica 'Peter Cottontail' is a delightful addition to any garden, offering a unique combination of beauty and resilience. Its charming, bunny tail-like flowers create a whimsical effect, while its low-maintenance nature and resistance to deer and rabbits make it a practical choice for busy gardeners. This long-blooming perennial thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil, providing a continuous display of delicate white flowers throughout the summer months. Whether used as a border plant, a filler in mixed containers, or a captivating addition to cut flower arrangements, 'Peter Cottontail' is sure to bring joy to any garden setting. Consider pairing it with other drought-tolerant perennials like lavender, salvia, or sedum for a vibrant and easy-care garden display.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
