The yarrow flower (Achillea millefolium) is a member of the Asteraceae family. The genus Achillea comes from Greek mythology--specifically the name of Achilles--in which it was considered to have healing properties. There are over 100 different yarrow species. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but has been successfully grown in North America.
Types
Achillea millefolium, labeled the common yarrow, has over 10 different varieties within the species. Five other varieties also considered common. In addition to the common yarrow there is the Pacific yarrow (pacifica), the boreal yarrow (borealis), the giant yarrow (gigantea) and the California yarrow (californica).
Features
The average height of a mature yarrow is between 1 1/2 to 3 feet, and it grows erect, with no drooping in healthy plants. The stems are light-green to green and rarely have branches or stems coming off the body. Flower clusters, with each flower 1 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter, top the stem. The common yarrow has white flowers, while other varieties can produce blue, yellow, orange and red flowers. Seeds, produced by the flower heads, are light-brown to brown in color.
Geography
The common yarrow grows throughout all of North America. The boreal yarrow grows exclusively in Canada, and the California variety grows in California, Oregon and Washington. The yarrow needs a temperate climate, a combination of ample sun and partial shade. Full sun, or temperatures over 85 degrees Fahrenheit, can weaken the plant. As with wildflowers, the yarrow thrives along roadsides, agricultural fields--especially those harboring grazing animals--and waste areas that have been recently excavated. The yarrow can adapt to most soils, but the preferred pH level is between 6.0 to 8.0.
Uses
Yarrow ointment, made from crushed leaves or plant extract, has been used as a styptic to stop bleeding, and also as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. The yarrow can be made into a tea, which, when ingested, can aid digestion problems, and act as an expectorant, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and stimulant.
Warning
Caution is needed with the yarrow. Kingdom Plantae advises that yarrow should be used sparingly, whether the use is external or internal. This is because some people are naturally allergic to yarrow, and contact could cause rashes.
