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Asteraceae HERB OUTDOOR Placement Primary: Medicinal Ornamental Companion Aromatic Other

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

Identified By Marcs

Yarrow is a remarkably resilient, herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, widely recognized for its feathery, fern-like leaves and flat-topped clusters of small white or pink flowers. Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, yarrow has a rich historical background as a medicinal herb, traditionally used to staunch bleeding and treat wounds. It thrives in various environments, showing exceptional drought tolerance once established. The plant is also a favorite in companion planting and garden designs due to its ability to attract beneficial predatory insects while improving poor soils with its deep root system.

Also known as: Common Yarrow Milfoil Bloodwort Thousand-leaf

Toxicity & Safety

Is Yarrow toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

Yarrow contains compounds such as sesquiterpene lactones and volatile oils that can be toxic to pets, including cats, dogs, and horses. Ingestion of the plant can lead to clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, lethargy, and contact dermatitis. If your pet has consumed yarrow and is showing signs of distress, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately for appropriate supportive care and treatment.

Is Yarrow toxic to humans?

No, Yarrow is generally safe for humans.

Is Yarrow safe during pregnancy?

Caution advised during pregnancy.

Yarrow should be strictly avoided during pregnancy due to its powerful emmenagogue and uterine stimulant properties. The phytochemical constituents present in the plant can potentially induce uterine contractions or stimulate menstrual flow, significantly increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must consult a healthcare professional before consuming any herbal preparations containing yarrow.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 30 - 90 cm
Width 30 - 60 cm
Growth Rate Fast
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature -30°C - 35°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 12 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 6 - 8
Watering Interval 7 - 14 days
Humidity 30.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 3 - 9

Temperate Northern Hemisphere

Climate: Yarrow thrives in temperate climates with distinct seasonal changes, moderate rainfall, and abundant access to direct sunlight throughout the spring and summer growing seasons.

Soils: Loam Sandy Loam Chalky Clay Loam
Annual Rainfall: 400 - 1200 mm

Native Regions

North America
Europe
Asia

How to Care for Yarrow

How should I handle sunlight requirements?

Yarrow requires full sun exposure to thrive and produce abundant blooms. Ensure the plant receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light can lead to weak, leggy stems, reduced flower production, and increased susceptibility to fungal diseases due to prolonged moisture retention on the foliage.

How should I handle watering guidelines?

Water young yarrow plants regularly to help establish a deep root system. Once mature, yarrow is remarkably drought tolerant and generally only requires watering during extended dry spells. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions, as soggy soil or poor drainage can quickly lead to root rot and plant decline.

How should I handle soil and fertilization?

Plant yarrow in poor to moderately fertile, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid rich soils or heavy applications of synthetic fertilizers, as excessive nutrients cause the stems to grow too rapidly, become floppy, and lose their structural integrity. Minimal intervention is always best for maintaining strong, upright plants.

How should I handle pruning and maintenance?

Prune back spent flower heads after the primary blooming period to encourage a second flush of flowers and prevent unwanted self-seeding across the garden. In late winter or early spring, cut the entire plant back close to the ground to clear away dead foliage and make room for fresh, vigorous new spring growth.

How to Propagate Yarrow

How to propagate Yarrow by division?

Propagating yarrow through root division is the most reliable and efficient method to maintain plant vigor and create identical copies of desirable cultivars. In early spring as new shoots begin to emerge from the soil, carefully dig up a mature, established clump of yarrow using a sharp garden spade. Gently shake or brush away excess soil to expose the root system and crown. Using a sharp, sanitized knife or your hands, pull or cut the root mass into several smaller sections, ensuring that each individual division contains healthy roots and multiple vigorous growing shoots. Immediately replant these divided sections into prepared garden beds at the same depth they were growing previously, and water them thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots and encourage rapid establishment.

How to propagate Yarrow by seed?

Growing yarrow from seeds is a straightforward and economical method for establishing new plants or covering larger garden areas. Sow the seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before the last expected spring frost, or directly outdoors in a prepared garden bed once all danger of frost has completely passed. Press the tiny seeds lightly into the surface of moist, well-draining seed-starting mix, as they require light to germinate effectively. Do not cover them deeply with soil. Keep the planting medium consistently moist and warm, maintaining temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius. Germination typically occurs within 10 to 14 days. Once the seedlings develop their true leaves and are large enough to handle safely, harden them off gradually before transplanting them into their permanent outdoor location in full sun.

Common Diseases & Pests of Yarrow

What is Powdery Mildew and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Powdery mildew appears as white or grayish talcum-powder-like spots on the upper and lower surfaces of yarrow leaves, stems, and flower buds. Severely infected leaves may curl, turn yellow, and drop prematurely, weakening the overall plant vigor during warm, humid weather conditions.

Treatment:

Treat infected plants immediately by removing heavily damaged foliage and applying organic fungicides such as neem oil, potassium bicarbonate, or sulfur-based sprays. Ensure proper cleanup of all fallen plant debris at the end of the growing season to eliminate overwintering fungal spores.

Prevention:

Prevent powdery mildew by spacing yarrow plants adequately to ensure good air circulation, planting them in locations with full sun, and avoiding overhead watering that leaves moisture sitting on the foliage for extended periods.

What is Root Rot and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Root rot causes yarrow plants to exhibit sudden wilting, yellowing foliage, stunted growth, and a general decline despite adequate or excessive soil moisture. Upon inspection, the roots appear brown, mushy, and fragile instead of firm and white.

Treatment:

There is no effective chemical cure once root rot is advanced. Carefully dig up severely affected plants and discard them. For mildly affected plants, reduce watering frequency, improve surrounding soil drainage, and apply a bio-fungicide.

Prevention:

Prevent root rot by planting yarrow exclusively in well-draining soils, avoiding low-lying areas where water pools, and allowing the soil to dry out thoroughly between irrigation cycles to prevent oxygen deprivation in the root zone.

Properties & Benefits of Yarrow

Used for Tea/Tisane Aromatic Plant

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of wound healing and hemostatic properties in Yarrow?

Yarrow has a long historical tradition as a powerful natural vulnerary and hemostatic agent, commonly referred to as soldier's herb. The plant contains active chemical constituents that help promote blood clotting and constrict blood vessels, making it exceptionally useful for stopping minor bleeding from cuts, scrapes, and nosebleeds when applied topically as a crushed leaf poultice or infused wash. Furthermore, its natural antimicrobial properties help cleanse minor wounds and reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections during the initial healing process.

Precautions: Do not apply yarrow to deep puncture wounds or severe lacerations without medical supervision, as stopping bleeding prematurely in deep injuries can trap bacteria inside. Discontinue use immediately if skin irritation or allergic dermatitis occurs.

What are the benefits of digestive and anti-inflammatory support in Yarrow?

Consuming yarrow as a herbal tea helps stimulate overall digestive function by encouraging the production of bile and digestive enzymes. This action can assist in relieving common gastrointestinal complaints such as bloating, gas, mild cramping, and sluggish digestion. Additionally, yarrow contains flavonoids and azulene, which exhibit notable anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated mucous membranes throughout the digestive tract, supporting internal comfort and overall gastrointestinal wellness.

Precautions: Consult a healthcare provider before regular internal use, especially if you have known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family such as ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Potassium moderate Trace plant mineral content
Flavonoids rich in High antioxidant capacity
Salicylic Acid moderate Present in herbal profile

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