SafePlants

Achillea millefolium - Common Yarrow

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow or common yarrow, is a flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. The common name "yarrow" is often used specifically for Achillea millefolium, but can also refer to other species within the same genus.

Considerations for Pets

• Common yarrow is strongly scented, which may be of interest to pets.
• The plant is described as having an extensive system of underground creeping stems.
• Common Yarrow has finely dissected leaves creating a soft texture.

Considerations for Children

• Common yarrow is strongly scented, which may be of interest to children.
• The plant is described as having an extensive system of underground creeping stems.
• Common Yarrow has finely dissected leaves creating a soft texture.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Achillea millefolium
• Common Names: Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Western Yarrow, Bloodwort, Carpenter's Weed, Knight's Milfoil, Noble Yarrow, Old Man's Pepper, Nosebleed.
• Family: Asteraceae (also referred to as Compositae)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to temperate regions of the world, including Eurasia.
• Introduced to North America, where it has formed interbreeding complexes with native species.
• Widely naturalized in the United States and found throughout all 50 states and Canada.
• Grows freely in grassland, chalk land, roadsides, and other sites with well-drained soil.
• Common in open, dry to somewhat moist areas from low to high elevations.
• Tolerant of disturbance and poor soil.

Morphological Characteristics

• A hardy perennial herb, growing from 30 cm to 70 cm tall.
• Has several stems rising from a branched rootstalk.
• Leaves are alternate, aromatic, and finely divided, giving them a feathery texture. They can grow up to 10 inches long.
• Typically has no branches except near the top.
• Flowers are small, approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) wide, with 4 to 6 petals.
• Flowers are usually white in the wild, but pinkish varieties are also cultivated. Breeders have also expanded its color range.
• Flowers cluster together on the heads of the stems to form a large, flat-topped flower head.

Ecological Role

• Can be considered a weed in some environments.
• Has a spreading habit, which allows it to fill available space easily.

Traditional and Modern Uses

• Historically used by various tribes, including the Pawnee and Chippewa, for ethnobotanical purposes.
• Used in traditional medicine to stop bleeding.
• Used for fever, common cold, hay fever, absence of menstruation, dysentery, diarrhea, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal discomfort, and more.
• Also used as a medicine, fumigant, and insecticide.
• Currently used in cosmetic and decorative applications.

Quirky Facts

• Yarrow has been used as a love charm.
• It has been known by names like "bloodwort," "carpenter's weed," and "nosebleed," reflecting its historical uses and perceived properties.

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
• Monrovia Plants