Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Achillea millefolium
Common Yarrow
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 1 to 3 feet
- Width
- 1 to 2 feet
- Flower color
- Large clusters of small white flowers
- Foliage color
- Gray-green, fern-like
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low to medium; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; cut back after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- Butterflies, bees, and other pollinators
About this plant
Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a hardy perennial that produces clusters of small, flat-topped white flowers. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, often continuing into the fall. The plant's finely divided, fern-like foliage is aromatic and is complemented by the flower heads that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, Achillea millefolium is found in a wide range of habitats, from meadows and grasslands to roadsides and open woodlands. Known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions, it has been used for medicinal and ornamental purposes for centuries. This versatile plant is popular in cottage gardens and natural landscapes for its long-lasting blooms and ability to tolerate drought.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
