How to Grow Yarrow
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
flowerYarrow is a hardy perennial flowering plant known for its feathery, finely divided foliage and clusters of small, vibrant flowers in shades of red, pink, yellow, white, and purple. It is extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for xeriscape gardens, native plant landscapes, and pollinator gardens.
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, extremely cold and heat tolerant
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Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings with threadlike cotyledons emerge within 10-14 days. Young plants develop finely divided feathery foliage.
Keep soil lightly moist; do not overwater. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing to prevent damping off.
Vegetative/Foliage Development
4-6 weeks (or all first season)Plant develops dense mounds of feathery, aromatic foliage. Stems elongate and branching occurs. Plant establishes strong root system.
Water moderately but allow soil to dry between waterings. No fertilizer needed unless soil is extremely poor. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth if desired.
Flowering
6-8 weeks, often June-September with proper deadheadingFlat-topped or slightly domed flower clusters (corymbs) appear at stem tips in vibrant colors. Individual flowers are tiny, densely packed together.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Reduce watering during peak heat. Allow some flowers to remain for wildlife and self-seeding.
Seed Development & Maturation
4-6 weeksFlower clusters dry and persist on the plant. Seeds develop within dried flower heads. Foliage may begin to fade in intense heat.
Stop deadheading if you want seeds to develop for next season. Avoid watering at this stage. Plants can be cut back after frost or left standing for winter interest.
Dormancy
3-4 months (or year-round in zones 8-9)In late fall and winter, foliage dies back (in cold zones) or persists as evergreen foliage (in mild zones). Plant survives underground as dormant rhizomes.
No watering needed in cold zones. In mild zones, water sparingly. Cut back dead foliage in early spring or leave for wildlife habitat. Apply mulch in zone 3 for winter protection.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; increase humidity; apply insecticidal soap if severe. Rarely a serious problem on yarrow.
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicide if needed. Occurs in humid conditions.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs; rarely causes serious damage.
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Improve drainage; reduce watering; remove affected plants; avoid planting in poorly drained soil.
Uses
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalYarrow has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support wound healing, reduce fevers, and soothe digestive issues. The plant contains compounds including alkaloids and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Herbal tea and seasoning
CulinaryYoung yarrow leaves and flowers can be brewed into a mildly bitter herbal tea or used as a culinary herb to add subtle flavor to dishes. Traditionally used to flavor beer before hops became standard. [source]
Pollinator magnet
WildlifeYarrow is an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Its long blooming period and abundant flowers make it invaluable in pollinator and native plant gardens. [source]
Dried flowers for arrangements
HouseholdYarrow flowers dry beautifully and retain their color and form for extended periods, making them ideal for dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and other dried floral crafts. [source]
Natural dye plant
CraftDifferent parts of yarrow can be used to create natural dyes ranging from golden yellow to olive green, depending on the plant part used and mordant applied. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For fresh cut flowers, harvest in early morning when fully open but before petals begin to fade. Cut stems at the base. For drying, cut flower clusters when fully mature and flowers begin to dry naturally; hang upside down in a cool, dry location for 2-3 weeks. For medicinal use, harvest flowering tops in mid-summer at peak potency.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Yarrow's genus name 'Achillea' comes from the Greek hero Achilles, who legend says used the plant to heal his soldiers' wounds in the Trojan War.
- 🌱 Yarrow spreads via both seeds and underground rhizomes, and can eventually colonize large areas if left unchecked, earning it the nickname 'conqueror plant' in some cultures.
- 🌱 The plant is so drought-tolerant that it thrives in poor, gravelly soils where many other plants cannot survive, making it a valuable pioneer species in ecological restoration projects.
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