Cut flower
Achillea (Yarrow)
Achillea millefolium
Flat-topped plates in apricot, gold and red — dries beautifully too.
Full sun
Low
Average
Very easy
Yes
Ornamental
Perennial
Hardy
10 L
25 cm
Flower
Echinacea (Coneflower)
Yarrow's pollen attracts predatory hoverflies that control aphids while both thrive in well-draining soil and full sun.
Cut flower
Rudbeckia
Both attract parasitic wasps and tachinid flies that control caterpillars and beetles while thriving in full sun and poor soil.
Flower
Verbena bonariensis
Tall verbena provides vertical interest while yarrow spreads horizontally; both attract hoverflies that consume aphids.
Situations where this plant is a reliable fit — from someone's kitchen sill to a wind-blown rooftop.
Where to source
Get growing in United Kingdom
Shop local first
The best plants come from a real nursery, and the best trowel comes from the old-fashioned ironmonger down the road — people who know their stock and can advise. Try local first, both for the plant and the kit. It keeps small growers and small hardware shops alive.
Searching near London
For pots, compost, seed trays, twine and other kit — Amazon has the essentials if the local option isn't right. Not a plant nursery; use the local map above for the plant itself.
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