Yarrow
A flowering plant used in traditional medicine and as livestock feed.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, native to temperate regions of Eurasia and North America. It has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent and wound-healing properties and is also cultivated as an ornamental and companion plant.
- Scientific name
- Achillea millefolium
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native range
- Temperate regions of Eurasia and North America
- Height
- 0.2–1 metre (8–40 inches)
- Bloom time
- March to October
- Flower color
- White to pink
- Introduced as livestock feed
- New Zealand and Australia
Lore & Background
Yarrow is an erect, herbaceous perennial with fernlike leaves and small whitish flowers. The plant has a distinct spicy scent and contains chemicals such as proazulenes, chamazulene, and δ-cadinol. Its taxonomy includes several subspecies and varieties, such as Achillea millefolium subsp. millefolium and Achillea millefolium var. californica.
Reader's Guide
Yarrow has been used in traditional medicine by various cultures, including Native American nations, for treating wounds, toothaches, earaches, and as an analgesic. It was also used in ancient times to stop bleeding and in the 16th century for nosebleeds. The plant is edible but advised not to be consumed in large amounts; its leaves and flowers can be used in salads or brewed as tea. In the Middle Ages, it was part of a herbal mixture called gruit used in flavoring beer. Yarrow is also planted to combat soil erosion and as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects. It can be invasive in some settings and is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, causing increased urination, vomiting, and dermatitis.
Did You Know?
- Yarrow has been found with Neanderthal burials, suggesting ancient human association.
- The dark blue essential oil of yarrow contains proazulenes.
- Several cavity-nesting birds, including the common starling, use yarrow to line their nests.
- Yarrow can be used for dyeing wool, producing colors from green to yellow depending on the mordant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Yarrow?
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family, native to temperate zones across Eurasia and North America. It is a well-known member of the herbal community, recognized for both its long medicinal history and its ornamental appeal.
What are Yarrow's powers or role?
In traditional medicine, Yarrow is prized for its astringent properties and its ability to support wound healing. It also serves a practical role as a companion plant in gardens and as feed for livestock.
Where does Yarrow live and how big does it get?
Yarrow is native to the temperate regions of both Eurasia and North America, where it thrives in a variety of outdoor settings. It typically reaches a height between 0.2 and 1 metre (roughly 8 to 40 inches).
What does Yarrow look like and when does it bloom?
Yarrow produces flowers in shades ranging from white to pink, with a blooming window that stretches from March through October. Its finely divided, feathery foliage gives it a distinctive look in any garden bed.
Why is Yarrow important in the herbal world?
Yarrow carries a long legacy in traditional healing, particularly for its astringent and wound-healing qualities. Its versatility as a companion plant and a source of livestock feed makes it a valued and widely cultivated member of the plant community.
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