Yarrow

Botanical Name: Achillea millefolium

Other Common Names: Common Yarrow, milfoil, staunchweed, white yarrow, sanguinary

Brief Description and Notes: There are hundreds of species of Yarrow; this one is the one native (or long-time naturalized) to all of the U.S. The straight species has white flowers (sometimes light pink); you will find many colorful cultivars and hybrids sold at nurseries. The leaflets are divided into more leaflets, giving the foliage a lacy or fern-like appearance. This is an excellent and hardy choice for a native, medicinal, and pollinator-supporting herb garden. 

Where To Look For It: Common in sunny to partly shaded disturbed soils. Common in locally cultivated herb gardens. Can tolerate drought. 

Ornamental Value: Delicate foliage and charming small flowers for summer

Ecological Value & Roles: Especially valuable for native pollinators; attracts beneficial insects while repelling pest insects; natural soil remediation; prevents soil erosion 

Edibility and Other Human Use: The leaves and flowers are edible and have a sweet and licorice-like scent and flavor; can be used as a garnishing herb or as a spice (keep in mind too much heat will destroy the flavor). There are many, many medicinal qualities of this plant, including: wound-healing, infection-fighting, healing respiratory illness and digestive issues, fever cure, and balancing menstruation. 

 

Sources

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

A Wandering Botanist: Plant Story – Yarrow, Achillea millefolium, a plant species complex

Eat the Planet: Yarrow – A Delicious and Nutritious Panacea

Coastal Watershed Council: Growing along the River: Yarrow