Common yarrow
Achillea millefolium
Hardy, low-maintenance perennial herb with feathery leaves and flat clusters of tiny flowers; tolerates poor soils, drought, and full sun.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: mildly toxic
Contains sesquiterpene lactones and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset or skin irritation in pets and people if ingested or over-handled.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Plant yarrow in full sun where it receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot inland climates give light afternoon shade. Indoors place near a south- or west-facing window or on a sunny patio for best flowering.
Water
Yarrow is drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently — typically every 7–14 days depending on temperature and soil. Allow the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil to dry between waterings. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Prefers low humidity and excellent air circulation. Avoid humid, stagnant conditions; use well-draining soil or amend potting mix with grit or perlite. Indoors, place near a ventilated area or use a small fan if humidity is high.
Temperature
Optimal growth 5–30°C (41–86°F). Tolerates light frost and can survive down to roughly −20°C (−4°F) when dormant. Protect from prolonged heat above 40°C (104°F).
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
White powdery coating on leaves and stems
Cause: Powdery mildew favored by high humidity, poor air circulation, and overhead watering.
Solution: Increase spacing, improve air flow, remove affected foliage and avoid overhead watering. Apply organic fungicide if severe.
Yellowing foliage, collapse or mushy roots
Cause: Overwatering or poorly drained soil causing root rot.
Solution: Reduce watering, improve drainage, repot into a gritty mix or amend soil with sand/perlite, remove rotten roots and replant.
Tall, floppy, sparse flowering stems
Cause: Insufficient light or over-fertilization causing weak, stretched growth.
Solution: Move to a sunnier site, reduce nitrogen fertilizer and pinch/trim regularly to encourage branching and compact habit.
Sticky residue, curled or distorted leaves
Cause: Aphids, mealybugs or spider mites, often on stressed plants.
Solution: Blast with water, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, introduce beneficial insects and remove heavily infested growth.
✂️How to Propagate Common yarrow
Division: Best in early spring or fall. Dig up clump, separate crowns with roots and replant 30–45 cm apart in well-drained soil. Seeds: Sow outdoors in spring or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost; press seeds lightly into soil and keep surface moist until germination. Stem cuttings: Take 7–10 cm basal cuttings in spring, strip lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in a gritty mix and keep humid until rooted.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Asteraceae
Native to: Native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia; naturalized across North America.
Natural Habitat: Occurs in open meadows, prairies, roadsides and dry, well-drained soils. Prefers sunny, slightly disturbed sites with low to moderate fertility and good air movement.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Cut back spent stems to near ground after first hard frost if desired. Allow light mulch in cold climates but ensure good drainage to avoid winter rot.
Spring
Divide overcrowded clumps, renew mulch, lightly fertilize if soil is poor, and start pruning/ deadheading to promote branching and blooms.
Summer
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong bloom. Monitor moisture during heat; established plants tolerate drought but benefit from deep watering in prolonged hot spells.
Fall
Reduce watering as plant enters dormancy. In mild climates leave seedheads for wildlife; in colder zones cut back and clear debris to reduce fungal issues.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water yarrow?
Water deeply but infrequently; allow the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil to dry between waterings, usually every 7–14 days.
Does yarrow need full sun?
Yes — yarrow flowers best with at least 6 hours of direct sun. It tolerates light shade but will be leggier and bloom less.
Can yarrow be grown in containers?
Yes, in a deep, well-draining pot with gritty mix. Ensure full sun and do not overwater to prevent root problems.
When should I divide yarrow?
Divide in early spring or fall every 3–4 years to rejuvenate plants and control spread.
Is yarrow invasive?
It can spread by rhizomes and self-seeding; in favorable sites it may naturalize, so control via division and removing seedheads.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025