Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
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Description
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial herb renowned for its feathery, fern-like leaves and clusters of small, aromatic flowers ranging from white to pink. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, yarrow is valued as a ground cover and companion plant, enhancing biodiversity and supporting pollinators. It functions as a dynamic accumulator, drawing nutrients like potassium and phosphorus from deep within the soil, making them available to other plants. Yarrow is particularly effective in attracting beneficial insects such as ladybugs, hoverflies, and predatory wasps, which help control pest populations. Historically, yarrow has been used in traditional medicine for its wound-healing properties and as a dye plant. In a food forest, it serves as a ground cover layer, improving soil structure and fertility. Guild companions include fruit trees, legumes, and aromatic herbs like lavender and rosemary, which benefit from yarrow's pest-repelling properties. Yarrow also plays a role in erosion control and enhancing soil microbial activity.
Growing Details
Yarrow grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought once established. For soil preparation, ensure good drainage by adding sand or grit if necessary. Mulching with organic matter such as straw or leaf mold can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Propagation is typically done by seed or division in spring or fall. Companion plants include aromatic herbs like lavender and rosemary, which benefit from yarrow's pest-repelling properties. Common
Edible Parts
Leaves
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Achillea millefolium</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to temperate regions of the Northern H
applicable geo region: Northern Hemisphere
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: Yarrow leaves and flowers can be used as a flavoring in salads, soups, and stews. The leaves have a slightly bitter taste and can be used fresh or dried. The flowers can also be used to make herbal teas. It is important to use yarrow in moderation due to its potent flavor and potential for allergic reactions. The leaves are best harvested in spring when they are tender.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Yarrow has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent properties. It is commonly used in herbal medicine to treat wounds, reduce fever, and alleviate digestive issues. Yarrow tea can be made from the flowers and leaves. However, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified herbalist, especially due to potential allergic reactions and contraindications during pregnancy. The plant is also used in poultices for wound healing.
health concerns: Yarrow can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. It should be used with caution during pregnancy and avoided in large doses.
other uses: Yarrow can be used as a natural dye and is also beneficial as a mulch plant in regenerative agriculture systems. Its presence can enhance soil structure and fertility. It is also used in composting to accelerate decomposition.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Achillea millefolium
common names: Common Yarrow; Milfoil; Soldier's Woundwort
family: Asteraceae
sub family:
tribe: Anthemideae
sub tribe:
genus: Achillea
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.3 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.9 m
max width: 0.6 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Yarrow grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought once established. For soil preparation, ensure good drainage by adding sand or grit if necessary. Mulching with organic matter such as straw or leaf mold can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Propagation is typically done by seed or division in spring or fall. Companion plants include aromatic herbs like lavender and rosemary, which benefit from yarrow's pest-repelling properties. Common
Potential Disturbances: Yarrow is generally resilient but can occasionally face challenges from aphids and powdery mildew. Managing these involves introducing beneficial insects and ensuring good air circulation.
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