Hansen's Northwest Native Plant Database

Achillea millefolium (Milfoil, Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Gordaldo, Nosebleed Plant, Old Man's Pepper, Devil's Nettle, Sanguinary, Milfoil, Soldier's Woundwort, Thousand-Leaf, Thousand-Seal)

Yarrow is an aromatic perennial herb known to most of us for its medicinal qualities. Present day uses are centered more on external injuries. Known as a styptic to stop bleeding, an astringent and anti-inflammatory to sooth, and antiseptic to cleanse, it is no wonder it is a staple of the herb garden. It is also known for its ability to repel insects, which is beneficial to surrounding plants.

The tall 1-3’ flowers are white, rounded to flat umbels that may be tinged with pink or yellow and appear from spring through fall.

The name millefolium means a thousand leaves and refers to the numerous small leaves, which give this plant its ferny appearance.

Yarrow has naturalized throughout the northern hemisphere but has Eurasian origins. It grows favorably in USDA zones 1-11 and most situations except deep shade and in areas containing standing water.

Yarrow spreads quickly by rhizomes and forms dense mattes making it a good choice for reducing soil erosion on slopes and hillsides.