Description
Achillea millefolium, commonly known simply as yarrow, is a hardy perennial native to Europe, Asia, and naturalised widely, including in New Zealand. Growing 30–60 cm tall, it bears flat-topped clusters of small white (sometimes pink-tinged) flowers above finely divided, feathery leaves with a distinctive aromatic scent. A favourite with pollinators, yarrow is also one of the oldest recorded medicinal herbs, valued for its ability to staunch bleeding, reduce fevers, ease digestive complaints, and support menstrual balance. Traditionally known as “soldier’s woundwort” and “herbal militaris,” it has been carried into battle for centuries. Yarrow thrives in sunny, well-drained soils, is drought-tolerant, and spreads by rhizomes, making it a vigorous groundcover in wildflower gardens. It is the most reliable form for herbal medicine compared with ornamental hybrids.
