Description
Latin name – Achillea millefolium
Yarrow is a hardy, sun-loving perennial that brings both beauty and function to the food forest. Its soft, fern-like foliage and flat clusters of blooms that create a wildflower look while serving an important ecological role.
Yarrow is considered a dynamic accumulator, helping draw nutrients from deeper soil layers and making them more accessible in the surrounding area. It’s also widely used as a companion plant, attracting beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps, lacewings, and predatory beetles that help manage common garden pests.
In addition to supporting pollinators, yarrow can improve overall soil health when used as chop-and-drop mulch, increase biodiversity in edible landscapes, tolerate drought once established, and thrive in poor soils where many ornamentals struggle
Historically valued as a traditional homestead herb, yarrow has been grown for generations for its practical uses and resilience. It’s a beautiful and functional addition to borders, pollinator strips, orchard understories, and mixed perennial beds.
Yarrow prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, especially during humid months, and allow for good airflow. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.
