Plant Profile Yarrow

Plant Profile: Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

 Yarrow by Extension Outreach

Common Name: Yarrow
Botanical Name: Achillea millefolium
Family: Asteraceae
Origin: Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere

Growth Habit

• Type: Herbaceous perennial

• Height: 30–70 cm (up to 1 m in fertile soils)

• Spread: Up to 45 cm

• Form: Upright, clumping growth with feathery, fern-like leaves

• Flowers: Flat clusters of small, daisy-like flowers in white, pink, yellow, or red (depending on cultivar)

• Flowering Season: Late spring to autumn

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun preferred (tolerates light shade)

• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soils

• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water sparingly

• Climate: Thrives in temperate climates; hardy in zones 3–9

• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; deadhead to prolong flowering

 Yarrow leaves source Wildfooduk

Uses and Benefits

• Pollinators: Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects

• Medicinal: Traditionally used for wound healing, fever, and digestive support

• Edible: Young leaves and flowers can be used in teas or salads (in moderation)

• Companion Planting: Improves plant health and repels some pests; enhances aromatic oils in nearby herbs

• Soil Builder: Dynamic accumulator; helps bring up nutrients from deeper soil layers

• Compost Activator: High in minerals and good for compost piles

Propagation

• By seed: Sow in spring or autumn, not common

• By division: Best by division
  

 Yarrow yellow source Veggiegardenseeds

Things to Note

• May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals

• Avoid overwatering – prefers dry to moderately moist conditions, it's a great drought hardy plant.

 Yarrow white source Kingsseeds

Permaculture Tip

Use Yarrow around fruit trees, veggie beds, or in herb spirals. It brings biodiversity, attracts predators of pests, and improves soil structure—making it a powerhouse in regenerative garden systems.

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About the Author

Doreen Jachmann from Nourished Landscapes has been providing permaculture services for over 10 years.

Doreen is passionate about helping people create sustainable and resilient landscapes.

Nourished Landscapes offer a variety of services, including:

* Permaculture design and installation

* Permaculture education, presentations and workshops

* Permaculture consulting

If you are interested in learning more about permaculture, please contact us today!