Botanical Name: Achillea ptarmica ‘Peter Cottontail Common Name: Sneezewort Yarrow Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 3–9) Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread Growth Habit: Upright, Clump-Forming Habit Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Sun Soil: Prefers Moist, Well-Drained Soil; More Tolerant of Moisture Than Common Yarrow Water Needs: Moderate; More Moisture-Tolerant Than Achillea millefolium Bloom Season: Early to Mid-Summer

Fertilizer: Light Feeding in Spring; Avoid Excess Fertility

Features: Button-Like White Blooms, Strong Upright Stems, Deer Resistant, Pollinator Friendly

Uses: Ideal for Perennial Beds, Cottage Gardens, Cutting Gardens, Pollinator Gardens, and Fresh or Dried Flowers

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Achillea ptarmica ‘Peter Cottontail’

Achillea ptarmica ‘Peter Cottontail’ is a charming and distinctive yarrow selection prized for its crisp white, button-shaped flowers that resemble tiny cotton puffs floating above the foliage. Unlike the flat, plate-like blooms typical of Achillea millefolium, this variety produces rounded, double-looking flower heads that bring a softer, more whimsical texture to the garden.

As a ptarmica type, ‘Peter Cottontail’ differs from common yarrow in both appearance and growing preferences. The foliage is slightly broader and greener, and the plant naturally grows taller and more upright, making it especially effective as a mid-border perennial. Its bright white blooms offer excellent contrast alongside bold colors and pair beautifully with blues, purples, and pastels in cottage-style or pollinator gardens.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Peter Cottontail’ has proven to be a reliable, easygoing perennial with excellent garden presence. It handles summer heat well and shows better tolerance for consistent moisture than many traditional yarrows, making it a great option for gardeners who struggle with overly dry or sandy conditions.

We also appreciate its value as a cut flower. The sturdy stems hold up well in fresh arrangements, and the blooms dry beautifully, retaining their shape and color. Pollinators—especially small native bees—frequently visit the flowers, while deer consistently leave it alone, making it a dependable choice for mixed perennial plantings.

Achillea ptarmica ‘Peter Cottontail’ vs. Other Yarrows

Compared to Achillea millefolium varieties like ‘New Vintage™ Red’ or ‘Moonshine,’ ‘Peter Cottontail’ offers a completely different look and function in the landscape. Millefolium types excel in dry, lean soils and low-maintenance plantings, while ptarmica selections prefer slightly richer or more consistently moist soil and provide a softer, more traditional garden aesthetic.

Where modern yarrows focus on tight habits and bold color, ‘Peter Cottontail’ shines in cottage gardens, cutting beds, and naturalistic plantings where texture and form matter just as much as color. For gardeners looking to expand beyond classic yarrow silhouettes, this variety adds elegance, versatility, and old-fashioned charm.