Achillea millefolium 'Paprika'

Achillea always stand out in gardens because of their large, flat-topped flowerheads that look quite unlike anything else, and their finely divided fern-like leaves. It takes its name from Achilles, who in legend is reputed to have used it to heal his soldier’s wounds after the siege of Troy, hence its other name ‘Soldier’s Wound Wart’.

‘Paprika’ is a fantastic variety with huge, plate-like flowerheads, each one made up of hundreds of individual blooms that are bright red with yellow centres when they first open. As they age, they fade to pale pink and then to a rich, creamy yellow creating a multi-colour effect that’s a truly stunning sight.

Recommended by the RHS as a 'Plant for Pollinators', the summer flowers are a favourite with butterflies and bees. Flowering from May to August, they’re a welcome contrast to the more usual rounded or spike shaped flower heads of most perennials and they look incredibly dramatic as cut flowers, lasting well in a vase, and can even be dried.

‘Paprika’ will grow in sun or partial shade, and any soil is suitable as long as it’s well drained.

Supplied as 3 x established plants in 9cm pots, ready for planting, and growing to a height of 70cm (2½ft) and width of 50cm (20in).