Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Thousand-leaf, Soldier's Woundwort
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae, Genus: Achillea, Species: Achillea millefolium · Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower family) · Compound (Bipinnate or tripinnate), deciduous perennial
Species
Achillea millefolium
Leaf Type
Compound (Bipinnate or tripinnate), deciduous perennial
Family
Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower family)
Shape
Lanceolate to linear in overall outline, but deeply dissected into many tiny, feathery segments
Size
Estimated 3-5 inches in length as shown; typical range is 2-8 inches long and up to 1 inch wide
Margin
Deeply divided (pinnatifid) into fine, fern-like lobes
Arrangement
Spiral or alternate along the stem; often found in a basal rosette during the first year or early spring
Rarity
Very Common; effectively a weed in many regions but also a popular garden ornamental
Color & Pattern
Deep green to grey-green; uniform coloration with a matte appearance due to fine hairs
Venation Pattern
Pinnate, though the primary midrib is the most visible feature due to the extreme dissection of the blade
Texture & Surface
Pubescent (hairy) and soft to the touch; the fine hairs give it a feathery, fern-like woolly texture
Description
Common yarrow is a hardy perennial herb known for its feathery, aromatic foliage and flat-topped clusters of small white to pink flowers. The plant typically grows 1-3 feet tall. The leaves are remarkably delicate in appearance, resembling a miniature fern or milfoil, which gives it its species name 'millefolium' (thousand-leaf). In summer, it produces stiff stems topped with dense, umbrella-like corymbs of flowers.
Key Features
Feathery, multi-divided leaves; characteristic pungent/sweet herbal scent when crushed; hairy, grooved stems; flat-topped flower clusters
Habitat
Disturbed soils, meadows, grasslands, roadsides, and open forests; prefers well-drained soil and full sun
Geographic Range
Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (Europe, Asia, North America); widely naturalized globally
Condition Notes
The specimen appears healthy and fresh (Excellent condition). There are no signs of powdery mildew or rust, which are common stressors for this species in humid conditions.
Interesting Facts
The genus name 'Achillea' refers to the Greek hero Achilles, who reportedly used the plant to treat the wounds of his soldiers. It has been found in Neanderthal burial sites, suggesting its use as a medicinal herb for over 60,000 years.
Medicinal & Uses
Used traditionally as a styptic to stop bleeding (hemostatic). It is also brewed into tea for colds or digestion. In landscaping, it is used for drought-tolerant groundcover or pollinator gardens. Warning: May cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.
Ecological Role
Exceptional pollinator plant, attracting hoverflies, ladybugs, and parasitic wasps that provide natural pest control. Highly drought-tolerant and helps prevent soil erosion.
Similar Species
Wild Carrot (Daucus carota) has similar lacy leaves but a different scent and distinct 'hairy' carrot-like taproot; Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea) has similar leaves but smells like pineapple.
Foraging Tips
Look for the basal rosettes in early spring. Identification is best confirmed by the unique aromatic scent when a leaf is crushed. Avoid picking from roadsides where runoff may contain toxins.
Toxicity Warning
Generally safe for humans in moderation, but can be toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested in large quantities (contains lactones and alkaloids). Moderately Toxic to pets; Non-toxic to humans generally, but use caution with pregnancy.