Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Thousand-leaf
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae, Genus: Achillea, Species: Achillea millefolium · Asteraceae (Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family) · Compound, specifically bipinnately or tripinnately divided (feathery)
Species
Achillea millefolium
Leaf Type
Compound, specifically bipinnately or tripinnately divided (feathery)
Family
Asteraceae (Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family)
Shape
Linear to lanceolate in outline, heavily dissected with numerous fern-like segments
Size
Approximately 3 to 6 inches long and 0.5 to 1 inch wide, which is typical for basal and lower stem leaves of the species
Margin
Deeply lobed and serrated segments (finely dissected)
Arrangement
Alternate along the upright stem, often forming a dense basal rosette at ground level
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Muted olive green to brownish-green due to the pressing and drying process; naturally a vibrant medium green on the upper surface and slightly paler underneath
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a central rachis and minute reticulate venation obscured by the fine dissection
Texture & Surface
Papery and delicate due to pressing; naturally slightly pubescent or woolly with soft hairs
Description
Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a hardy, herbaceous perennial plant famous for its finely divided, feathery leaves and flat-topped clusters of small white or pale pink flowers. The specific epithet 'millefolium' translates to 'thousand leaves', directly referencing the incredibly intricate, fern-like segmentation of the foliage. The plant grows from a creeping rhizome, producing erect stems that typically reach one to three feet in height. It is exceptionally resilient, often colonizing disturbed soils and enduring dry conditions with ease.
Key Features
Extremely finely divided, feathery, fern-like leaves alternate along the stem; strong, aromatic, medicinal scent when crushed; flat-topped flower clusters produced in summer
Habitat
Fields, meadows, grasslands, roadsides, waste areas, and open forests; prefers well-drained soils and full sun
Geographic Range
Widespread natively across the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere in North America, Europe, and Asia
Condition Notes
Well-preserved pressed herbarium specimen in good condition with minor drying-induced color fading; overall structural integrity of the delicate leaflets is well-maintained
Interesting Facts
Yarrow has a legendary history dating back to the Trojan War, where Achilles was said to use it to heal the wounds of his soldiers (hence the genus name Achillea). It is also known as 'soldier's woundwort' and was historically used to staunch bleeding on the battlefield.
Medicinal & Uses
Widely used in traditional herbal medicine as a styptic to stop bleeding, reduce fevers, aid digestion, and soothe cold symptoms. The leaves and flowers can be steeped into a tea or crushed into a poultice. It is also planted in gardens as a companion plant to attract beneficial predatory insects.
Ecological Role
Provides crucial nectar and pollen to a wide array of beneficial insects, including predatory wasps, hoverflies, butterflies, and bees. It acts as a dynamic accumulator, bringing up minerals from deep in the soil and improving soil health.
Similar Species
Mayweed Chamomile (Anthemis cotula) and Scentless Chamomile (Tripleurospermum perforatum), which also have finely divided leaves but lack the strong, pleasant aromatic scent of yarrow and have different flower structures.
Foraging Tips
Look for yarrow in open meadows, along walking paths, and in sunny fields, particularly from spring through autumn. Crush a small piece of the leaf to check for its distinctively sweet, medicinal, and slightly spicy aroma to confirm identification.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans in standard culinary or medicinal amounts, though excessive consumption can cause headaches or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. It can be mildly toxic to livestock and dogs if ingested in very large quantities.