Achillea millefolium - Common Yarrow

Morphology/Growth Habits: This perennial wildflower boasts abundant flat-topped clusters of tiny white flowers and feathery, fern-like leaves that emit a fragrant scent when crushed. Achillea millefolium is competitive, spreading both by seed and rhizomes, and can quickly spread in disturbed areas. Cut back to basal foliage after blooming to encourage additional blooms.

Height: 2-3 ft

Sun: Full sun

Water: Medium to dry

Bloom color: White

Bloom time: July-September

Habitat/Best Environments: Common Yarrow occurs naturally in meadows, open forests, and is a recommended plant for restoring disturbed sites as an early successional species. This plant prefers lean, well-draining soil. Moderately salt-tolerant and drought-tolerant, making it a great option for street tree beds!

Ecological relationships: This plant’s bright white flowers attract many pollinators. Larval host for Painted Lady Butterfly. Historically used for pain relief by various tribes of the Plains region of the United States: Used as a tea for stomach disorders and fevers, and as a poultice for rashes and to clot open wounds.*

*Please soil test and do proper research before growing a plant for human consumption