Common Yarrow

(Achillea millefolium)

Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as Common Yarrow, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb that is native to a wide range of habitats including meadows, grasslands, and open forests across the northern hemisphere, particularly in subarctic and temperate zones. It typically grows to 0.2–1 meter (8–40 inches) in height and has a spreading rhizomatous growth form, which can lead to it forming dense clumps. The leaves are finely dissected, giving them a feathery appearance, and are evenly distributed along the stem. The largest leaves are found near the middle and bottom of the stem. Common Yarrow produces clusters of small, disk-shaped flowers that range in color from white to pink, blooming from early to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to a variety of insects and are known for their generalized pollination system.

Common Yarrow is valued for its hardiness, ease of maintenance, and its ability to attract beneficial insects, including pollinators and natural pest predators. It is commonly used in native plant gardens, drought-tolerant landscapes, and wildlife gardens, including butterfly gardens. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties, historically used for its anti-inflammatory and astringent effects. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade and less ideal soil conditions. While generally pest-free, it can suffer from mildew or root rot in poorly drained soils and may become invasive if not managed properly.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type:
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Meadows, grasslands, and open forests across the northern hemisphere

Other Names

Common Names: Yarrow , Milfoil , Bloodwort , Carpenter’s Weed , Milenrama , Western Yarrow , Nose Bleed , Sanguinary , Thousand Seal , Gordaldo

Scientific Names: Achillea millefolium , Achillea millefolium var. pedemontana , Achillea lanata , Achillea ceretanica , Achillea millefolium var. lanuginosa , Achillea millefolium var. lanata , Achillea millefolium var. rosea , Achillea palmeri , Achillea dentifera , Achillea lanulosa subsp. typica

GBIF Accepted Name: Achillea millefolium L.