Also known as Milfoil, Soldier's Woundwort, and Thousand-seal, this unassuming plant conceals great powers. Considered sacred by some, it is believed to be named after Achilles who used it to staunch blood flow in his army at Troy. The French word millesfeuilles was used to describe this plant's feathery and fern-like appearance. Over time the pronunciation became corrupted and
people simply referred to it as Milfoil.
Description
This erect herb has fern-like foliage, which is covered with woolly hairs. Leaves are alternate and pinnately divided into many small segments. Leaflets are sharply cleft. Numerous flower heads are composed of disk & ray florets in flat-topped clusters. The fruit is an achene.
Plant type and hardiness
Perennial; hardiness zone 2.
Height and width
Height 6-10 inches; width 10-16 inches.
Light and soil
Full sun to light shade; fairly rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.7.
Pests and disease
Powdery mildew, stem rot, rust.
Cultivation
Yarrow grows easily from seed, or divide clumps in the spring or fall. If it is used as a ground cover, it may be mowed once per year. Remove dead flowers.
Propagation method
Divide(every other year) in spring or fall. Rarely propagated by cuttings.
Bloom time and color
June - Sept.; white, red, pink, orange, yellow.
Harvesting
gather leaves and flowers in late summer. Dried flowers hold their color well.
Herbal uses
Cosmetic, decorative, medicinal. Cosmetic uses include an astringent and for cleansing and an addition to skin lotions. Decorative use include making a yellow to olive dye and attractive flowers. Flowers dry nicely and can be used in wreaths or arrangements, or use them in fresh florals too. Yarrow is said to have some medicinal properties. Some people are allergic to yarrow.
Insider's Secret
When planted with other herbs, it will deepen their fragrance and flavor by increasing their essential oils. Yarrow attracts beneficial insects, such as lady bugs who like to lay their eggs on the flowers. It may also help nearby plants to resist disease. Yarrow repels ants, flies, and Japanese beetles.
