How to grow Yarrow
Updated October 2026
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a tough, drought-tolerant perennial in the daisy family with ferny, aromatic leaves and flat flower heads in white, pink, red, yellow and pastel shades. The species is native across temperate North America as well as Europe and Asia. It thrives in full sun and poor, well-drained soil, draws pollinators and beneficial insects, and spreads readily by rhizomes and seed.
📖 Our full guide: How to Grow Yarrow
Where to plant
Plant yarrow in full sun in well-drained soil. It tolerates poor soil, drought and moderate salt, and rich, moist soil makes it tall and floppy. It rots in wet soil.
Yarrow spreads aggressively by underground rhizomes and by seed, which makes it a good ground cover or lawn alternative in low-traffic areas, but it can take over a mixed border. Deadhead to limit self-seeding, and divide clumps every few years.
- Florida, the Gulf South, Texas and the Desert Southwest: plant in late winter (January to February) so it establishes before summer; give it sharp drainage, as humid summers can rot it.
- California: plant in spring; it is drought tolerant once established.
- Mid-South, Mid-Atlantic, Southern Plains and the Pacific Northwest: plant in spring, April to May.
- Northeast, Midwest, Northern Plains and Mountain West: plant in May; it is fully hardy.
- Hawaii: plant in spring or fall in dry, sunny spots. Alaska: plant in June.
Choosing a variety
Common white yarrow is the toughest and most native-like. Colored cultivars and hybrids, such as Paprika (brick red), Cerise Queen, Summer Pastels and the Seduction series, are bred for garden color and are often less aggressive.
How to plant
- Start from plants or divisions, or sow seed indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost.
- Press seed onto the surface of moist mix without covering it; it needs light to germinate.
- Plant out 12 to 18 inches apart in a sunny, well-drained spot without added compost.
- Water until established, then only in long dry spells.
Watering and feeding
Yarrow is drought tolerant once established and needs water only in long dry spells. Overwatering and wet soil cause root rot.
Do not fertilize; rich soil gives weak, floppy stems.
Pruning and care through the year
- Deadhead faded flower heads to prolong blooming and reduce spreading by seed.
- Cut stems back after the first flush for a second bloom.
- Divide clumps every 3 to 4 years in spring or fall to keep them vigorous and in bounds.
Cutting flowers
For fresh or dried flowers, cut stems when most of the tiny florets in the head have opened and the color is strong. Hang bunches upside down in a dry, airy, shaded place to dry. Regular cutting keeps fresh heads coming.
Growing in pots
Compact cultivars grow in a pot at least 10 inches wide with a free-draining mix; keep it on the dry side.
Propagation and saving seed
Yarrow is easily divided in spring or fall. It also grows from seed and self-sows freely.
Companion planting
Yarrow's flat flower heads feed hoverflies, lady beetles and small parasitic wasps that help control pests, so it earns a place near vegetables and fruit.
Good companions
- Brassicas Its flowers draw small wasps and hoverflies that attack cabbage caterpillars and aphids.
- Tomato Brings beneficial insects into the vegetable garden.
- Herbs Suits a dry, sunny herb bed with Mediterranean herbs.
- Fruit trees A low, drought-tolerant insectary plant for the orchard edge.
Pests and diseases
Yarrow has few pests and is deer and rabbit resistant. Wet soil is the main danger.
Pests to watch for
- Aphids Clusters on stems and flower buds.
Diseases to watch for
- Root rot Plants yellow, wilt and die back in wet, poorly drained soil.
- Powdery mildew White powder on the leaves in humid weather with poor air flow.
Common questions
Is yarrow invasive?
It spreads aggressively by rhizomes and seed and can take over a border, though common yarrow is native in much of North America. Deadhead it, divide it regularly and give it room, or choose less vigorous cultivars.
Why is my yarrow floppy?
Usually rich soil, too much water or too much shade. Grow it in lean, well-drained soil in full sun, skip the fertilizer, and cut it back after the first flowering.
Is yarrow toxic to pets?
NC State lists yarrow as a problem for cats, dogs and horses, and it can cause skin irritation in some people. Keep pets from eating it.
How do I grow yarrow from seed?
Press seed onto moist mix without covering it, as it needs light to germinate, and keep it moist and warm. Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost or sow outdoors in spring.
Does yarrow attract beneficial insects?
Yes. Its flat flower heads attract many pollinators and beneficial insects such as hoverflies and small wasps that prey on garden pests.
Sources we checked: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Achillea millefolium.
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