Plant Specifications
Achillea millefolium (Cassis Achillea) Perennial. Sun. Height: 16” Width: 10 – 14”
Yarrow is a flowering plant native to Europe, it has naturalized throughout temperate North America. In New Mexico and southern Colorado, it is called plumajillo, or “little feather”, for the shape of the leaves. Several tall stems rise from a rhizome root (fibrous underground horizontal rootstock.) The lance-shaped and finely divided dark green leaves are evenly distributed. Red Yarrow blooms in bright cherry-red, umbels (flat-domed shaped) flower heads that can number as many as ten or twelve per plant.
In the Garden
Yarrow is a drought tolerant species and often found in the grasslands and open forests throughout the United States. Yarrow responds best to soil that is poorly developed and well drained. It thrives and blooms from Spring to Fall. Notorious for its reputation as invasive, the Texas heat apparently keeps that tendency in check. This particular yarrow is stunning with a long-flowering season. Perfect for cuttings and bouquets, dried or fresh. Generally hardy throughout the Texas winter but guard against allowing it to get too dry nor too wet. Trim back dead flower blooms to encourage new growth.
Plant Uses
Great for use in teas, Yarrow has seen historical use as a medicine, often because of its astringent effects. Decoctions have been used to treat inflammations, such as hemorrhoids, and headaches. Confusingly, it has been said to both stop bleeding and promote it. Depending on the form it is administered it can do both, which is why when dabbling in using herbs for medicine it is proper to contact a herbalist or other expert.