(Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis)
A hardy, drought-tolerant, perennial native to Washington state, found statewide in diverse habitats from sea level to mountains. It grow 4-38" tall featuring flat-topped clusters of white flowers, feathery foliage, and grows 4–39 inches tall. It is excellent for pollinators, erosion control, attracting beneficial insects. It is aromatic and usually rhizomatous. Yarrow likes dry to moist well drained open sites.
Yarrow is a versatile medicinal herb prized for its ability to stop bleeding, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion. Historically known as "soldier's woundwort" it treats wounds, reduces fever, eases menstrual pain, and acts as a digestive tonic, often used in teas, tinctures, or as a topical poultice.
The stems when steam-distilled release an inky-blue oil, rich in chamazulene (often 15-30%+) for superior anti-inflammatory, calming, and skin-healing properties
ZONE: 3-9
POLLINATOR: Yes
DEER RESISTANT: Yes
DROUGHT TOLERANT: Yes "highly"
EVERGREEN: No
SPREADS BY SEED: Yes and rhizomes
NEEDS A CROSS POLLINATOR: Capable of self pollination but prefers insects
AGE OF PLANT: Estimated 1yr old (current stock)
MATURE HEIGHT: 1-3ft tall & wide
WESTERN WHITE YARROW
PLANTING & GROWING
Well drained poor soil, this one thrives on low nutrients, too much can mess it up. Only add water, nothing else, and it thrives. If your soil is too thick, add sand. Plant in full sun to part shade.
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
- Historically called "woundwort," it is highly effective at stopping bleeding, reducing infection, and healing skin injuries
- Used to induce sweating, alleviate colds, and reduce fever
- Helps alleviate stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhea, and abdominal spasms.
- Contains salicylic acid, which aids with joint pain, rheumatism, and headaches
- Used for regulating menstruation and alleviating painful cramps
- Used in salves for eczema, rashes, and as a natural insect repellent
- Renowned for its remarkable "dual action" ability to act as a hemostat (stopping external bleeding) while simultaneously acting as a vascular toner that improves circulation to move stagnant blood internally. It acts as a "great equalizer," balancing bodily functions by being both warming and cooling, or drying and fluid-promoting, depending on what the body requires.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
FLAVOR & PAIRING
Yarrow has a pungent, bittersweet, and herbaceous flavor reminiscent of tarragon, anise, and mild oregano. Best used sparingly, it acts as an aromatic bitter in teas, salads, and Mediterranean dishes, pairing well with lemon, cream, root vegetables and soft herbs like chervil or parsley.
You don't want to really "cook" it. Its great for flavoring meat before sauteing, or vegetables with yarrow. Adding it at the end of cooking just to heat it through for a moment, with the heat turned off like you would chives or parsley. Seasoning something with yarrow and then sauteing will destroy the flavor.