Flat-topped clusters of bright yellow flowers sit above finely divided, fern-like foliage from early summer through to autumn, creating a cheerful display that is loved by pollinators. Achillea millefolium Yellow Yarrow is a tough, drought-tolerant perennial that brings long-lasting colour, texture, and wildlife value to borders, meadow-style planting, and cottage gardens.
Achillea millefolium, commonly known as Yarrow, is one of the most versatile garden perennials. Its upright flower heads provide a striking contrast to softer planting, while its finely textured foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season. Easy to grow and highly resilient, it is particularly valuable in wildlife gardens and sunny borders.
Perennial
Herbaceous, Long Flowering, Drought Tolerant, Pollinator Friendly
Flowers: June to September
Foliage: March to November
Scientific Name
Achillea millefolium (thousand-leaved yarrow)
Common Name
Yarrow
Common Yarrow
Yellow Yarrow
Origin
The species Achillea millefolium is native throughout the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, and North America, where it grows naturally in grasslands, meadows, roadsides, and open countryside.
Pruning Tips
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut plants back to near ground level in late autumn or early spring before new growth emerges.
Wildlife Value
An excellent plant for wildlife. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and many other beneficial insects. The flower heads provide easy access to nectar for a wide range of pollinators.
Positioning
Thrives in full sun and is ideal for cottage gardens, wildlife borders, prairie-style planting, gravel gardens, and meadow schemes. Best planted in an open, sunny position.
Water
Water regularly while establishing. Once established, yarrow is highly drought tolerant and generally only requires watering during prolonged periods of exceptionally dry weather.
Soil
Prefers well-drained soil and grows happily in sandy, chalky, or loamy conditions. It tolerates relatively poor soils and often performs better in less fertile ground.
Food
Requires very little feeding. A light spring mulch of garden compost is usually sufficient. Excessive fertiliser can lead to floppy growth and reduced flowering.
Pet-safe
Mild toxicity has been reported if consumed in large quantities by cats, dogs, and horses. Contact with the sap may occasionally cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Planting in normal garden settings is generally considered low risk.
Sprouts Top Tips
Plant alongside salvias, echinaceas, ornamental grasses, and hardy geraniums for a colourful, drought-tolerant border that flowers for months and attracts a wealth of pollinators.
Did You Know?
The genus name Achillea is linked to the legendary Greek hero Achilles, who was said to have used yarrow to treat the wounds of his soldiers during the Trojan War. The species name millefolium means “thousand leaves”, referring to its finely divided foliage.
