Common yarrow
Also known as
Yarrow, Milfoil, Nosebleed plant, Soldier's woundwort, Old man's pepper, Thousand-leaf, Gordaldo
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Common yarrow
Achillea millefolium, commonly called common yarrow, is a resilient herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae native across the temperate Northern Hemisphere. It forms low, ferny mats of finely divided, aromatic foliage from which sturdy stems rise to 12–36 in (30–90 cm), topped by broad, flat clusters (corymbs) of many tiny daisylike flowers. Wild forms are typically white, while garden selections range from soft pink to rich red, apricot, and yellow. Blooming from early summer into fall with deadheading, yarrow is a magnet for bees, butterflies, and beneficial predatory insects. Its deep, fibrous roots and rhizomes make it highly drought tolerant once established and capable of binding soil on banks and dry slopes. The plant withstands wind, salt spray, and deer browse, and thrives in lean, well-drained soils where many perennials struggle. Historically valued as a styptic and aromatic herb, it can self-sow and slowly spread by rhizomes, so thoughtful siting and occasional division keep clumps tidy and prevent unwanted colonization in fertile conditions.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Common yarrow
Water
Water newly planted yarrow regularly for the first 6–8 weeks to establish deep roots. Thereafter, water only when the top 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) of soil are dry; soak thoroughly, then allow soil to dry again. In typical summers, this may mean every 10–14 days in the ground, more often in containers or extreme heat. Avoid chronically wet conditions—soggy soil invites root rot and reduces bloom. Mulch lightly with gravel, not bark, to conserve moisture without trapping humidity.
Light
Provide full sun for best habit and flowering—at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily. Yarrow tolerates light afternoon shade, especially in hot climates, but stems may elongate and lean, and flower count declines. Indoors or on shaded balconies, supplement with a 4000–6500 K grow light for 12–14 hours daily at 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) above foliage. Ensure open exposure and spacing to maintain airflow, which keeps foliage dry and reduces mildew pressure.
Nutrients
Yarrow performs best in lean soil and often needs no fertilizer. Excess nitrogen promotes lanky growth and reduces flowering. For in-ground plants, incorporate a small amount of compost at planting, then skip regular feeding. In containers, apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5 or 5-7-10) at 1/2 strength once in spring; repeat lightly after the first flush if growth is pale. Avoid rich manure teas and slow-release high-N pellets. Maintain sharp drainage to prevent nutrient buildup in wet media.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, yarrow tolerates cold to at least −30°F (−34°C) and heat if soil is well-drained. Ideal growth occurs between 60–80°F (15–27°C). In humid heat, provide excellent air flow to deter mildew. Plants overwinter outdoors easily; in containers, protect from freeze–thaw cycles by insulating pots or moving to a sheltered spot. Avoid prolonged waterlogging in cool weather, which is more damaging than cold itself. Light frost does not harm established plants and may improve dormancy.
