Native to Southern Europe, yarrow has been a traditional part of herb gardens for hundreds of years because of its fragrant foliage, medicinal uses, and cheerful, long lasting flowers. Yarrow can often be found in growing in dry fields, along roads, or on rocky hillsides. It can be somewhat invasive if it has the opportunity. Linnaeus named it for Greek general Achilles, who according to legend received yarrow as a gift from the gods - the general's soldiers used yarrow to stanch the flow of their blood in the battlefields of the Trojan War. In the early days of the American prairies, Native American tribes such as the Pawnee, Cherokee, and Chippewa used common yarrow to relieve pain and headaches, reduce fever, and induce sleep. Cosmetic preparations sometimes include yarrow because of its cleansing, refreshing effect. When taken internally as a tea, yarrow purifies the system and has anti-inflammatory benefits. Cosmetic preparations sometimes include yarrow because of its cleansing, refreshing effect. Medicinal use of yarrow is not recommended for expectant mothers.
FAST FACTS
Species Origin: Caucasus Mountains
Type: Garden Flowers
Life Cycle: Perennial
USDA Zones: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Stratification: No Stratification
Germination Ease: No Stratification
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height: 18 Inches
Color: Red and Gold
Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer
Uses: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Honeybees, Attracts Butterflies, Aromatic, Cut Flowers, Dried Flowers, Deer Resistant