Western Yarrow (Achillea millefolium occidentalis)
A hardy, drought-tolerant perennial herb with feathery leaves and flat-topped clusters of small flowers, historically used in traditional medicine for wound healing and fevers, and now popular in gardens for attracting pollinators and for its ornamental value in fresh or dried arrangements. It's native to temperate Northern Hemisphere regions and comes in various colors, though its uses also include folklore, soil improvement, and as a pest-deterring companion plant.
Sun: needs full sun for strong stems and abundant blooms; too much shade can lead to leggy, floppy growth.
Soil: thrives in average, well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions
Height: Ranges from 8 in to 5ft tall (depending on variety). Common yarrow can grow 2-3 ft tall.
Spread: spreads by rhizomes (underground stems) and seeds, often aggressively, forming dense colonies unless managed. The speed and extent of spread vary by cultivar, with some spreading more than others.
Garden Design:
Use Yarrow as an edging plant or in xeriscapes due to its drought tolerance, and combine it with other pollinator-friendly species such as coneflowers and lavender for a vibrant, low-maintenance garden. Ensure it gets full sun and well-drained soil to prevent flopping and promote strong stems.