Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium in bloom

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Description

Achillea millefolium is a herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows to 0.2–1 m tall. The leaves are 5–20 cm long, bipinnate or tripinnate, and almost feathery, giving the plant its common name, "millefolium," meaning "thousand leaves."

Leaves of Achillea millefolium

The plant produces one to several stems and has a spreading rhizomatous growth form. The flowers are produced in dense, flat-topped clusters, each flower being 5 mm in diameter, with white to pink petals.

Habitat and Distribution

Achillea millefolium is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open forests. It is adaptable to different soil types and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is often found in disturbed areas and is considered a pioneer species.

Uses

Achillea millefolium has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It is also used in aromatherapy and as an ornamental plant in gardens.

Yarrow essential oil

Cultivation

Yarrow is easy to grow and requires minimal care. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The plant can be propagated by seed or division. It is often used in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance.

Related Species

Achillea millefolium is part of the genus Achillea, which includes several other species such as Achillea ptarmica and Achillea filipendulina.

Related Pages

• Asteraceae
• Herbal medicine
• Perennial plant
• Xeriscaping

Gallery

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  Illustration of Achillea millefolium
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  Close-up of flowers
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  Pollinator on yarrow
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  Red variety of Achillea millefolium
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  Achillea millefolium in a garden
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  Close-up of leaves
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  Yarrow stalks used for I Ching