Common Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Commonly known as yarrow, it features feathery foliage and flat-topped clusters of flowers. Native to Europe and Asia, this species is prized for its medicinal properties and ability to attract beneficial insects.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy during establishment.
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding once they are 2 inches tall.
- Transplant mature plants to desired locations after the last frost date.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
- Apply a light mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage and full sun exposure for lush, healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune back after flowering to encourage bushier growth
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize excessively, as it can reduce hardiness
- Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering
- Don’t leave dead foliage on plants to prevent disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Common Yarrow questions
What zones can Common Yarrow grow in?
Common Yarrow is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Common Yarrow deer resistant?
Yes — Common Yarrow is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Common Yarrow bloom?
Common Yarrow typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Common Yarrow need full sun?
Common Yarrow does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Common Yarrow drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Common Yarrow handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Achillea to compare
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Achillea millefolium 'Red Velvet'
Common Yarrow
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Common Yarrow
Achillea millefolium 'New Vintage White'
Summer Pastels Yarrow
Achillea millefolium 'Summer Pastels'
Moonshine Yarrow
Achillea millefolium 'Moonshine'
Pink Grapefruit Yarrow
Achillea millefolium 'Pink Grapefruit'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Common Yarrow with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
