yarrow Interesting Notes

Achillea millefolium is a cosmopolitan herb, brought to North America with early settlers and mixing with endemic species. With fern-like foliage, common yarrow grows 1-3' wide and tall. When grown in the garden, it forms large clumps that spread by rhizome to form a dense mat. In highly competitive environments like prairies and meadows, yarrow primarily only has leaves near the top of the stem. Flowers are flat-topped clusters emerging bright white and fading a soft white to a tan over time. The primary bloom time is in midsummer but will sporadically rebloom through the rest of the growing season.

Achillea millefolium is commonly found through most of the temperate regions throughout North America and is easily spotted in disturbed soils, along roadsides, or in abandoned fields. Growing best in full sun, it can tolerate light amounts of shade and prefers medium moisture but can tolerate drought once established.

Common yarrow is used medicinally all over the temperate world and the flowers can be dried to use in dried arrangements. Many bees, butterflies, moths, and other generalist insects feed on the nectar of this plant. It is resistant to deer and rabbits. Common yarrow is sometimes used as a no-mow lawn substitute. 

Achillea millefolium Growing and Maintenance Tips

Full sun to light shade in sandy, dry or average soils. Very easy to grow and drought tolerant once established. Fast propagation can be achieved with cuttings taken in mid-summer. Clumps of mature plants should be divided every 3-4 years. After the initial bloom in summer, flower stalks can be trimmed all the way back to the ground to encourage the plant to keep blooming. 

Good Substitutions

Achillea millefolium 'Oertel's Rose'

Achillea 'Moonshine'

Achillea millefolium 'Paprika'

Achillea 'Terracotta'