Yarrow: Hardy Perennial for Borders, Rock Gardens, and Wildflower Meadows

Yarrow comes in bright yellow, red, or pink.

Crestock

Yarrow is a hardy perennial with showy flower heads of many tiny, tightly-packed flowers. Fern-like leaves are often aromatic. Easy-care and versatile: borders, rock gardens, wildflower meadows. Excellent for cutting or drying.

Planting Yarrow

• Loosen soil 12–15 inches; mix in 2–4 inches compost.
• Plant spring in well-drained, average-to-poor soil. Yarrow thrives in hot, dry conditions; will not tolerate wet soil. Rich soil encourages growth requiring staking.
• Space 1–2 ft apart. Quick to establish and spread. Some species (Achillea millefolium) are invasive—choose carefully. Most reach 2–4 ft tall.

Care

• Each spring: thin compost + 2-inch mulch.
• Water regularly if summer rainfall < 1 inch/week.
• Divide every 3–5 years. Lift clumps early spring or fall; remove dead center stems; replant divisions in prepared soil.
• Tip cuttings: plant spring or early summer.

Pests and Diseases

• Aphids
• Powdery mildew
• Rust
• Stem rot

Recommended Varieties

• Coronation Gold – Mustard-yellow flowers, silvery gray leaves.
• Fanal ("The Beacon") – Rich red flowers with yellow centers.
• Cerise Queen – Bright pink for garden color.

Wit & Wisdom

Native Americans used ground yarrow infusion as sunburn wash. Also used for anxiety/stress relief.

Yarrow symbolizes everlasting love. Learn more flower meanings.