Holly's Homestead — Medicinal
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium · Asteraceae
DIFFICULTY Easy
TYPE Herbaceous perennial, spreads via rhizomes
MATURITY 8–10 weeks to first flowers
TYPE Herbaceous perennial, spreads via rhizomes
MATURITY 8–10 weeks to first flowers
Sun
Full sun
Water
Low, drought tolerant once established
Soil pH
6.0–8.0
Spacing
30–45cm
Depth
as per pot
01Feathery foliage, tough roots
Yarrow's flat-topped flower clusters and fern-like foliage are traditionally dried for tea, but its value in a garden is attracting predatory insects like ladybirds and lacewings. It spreads slowly by rhizomes and copes with drought better than almost anything else on this site.
02Planting
Method
Plant from a nursery pot, or grow from seed (needs a cold period to germinate well).
Soil
Free-draining, moderately fertile.
Timing
Plant in spring or autumn.
Planting timing varies significantly by Australian climate zone. Set your zone above (or use the Find My Climate Zone tool) for guidance tailored to your own area.
03Growing care
- Water moderately while establishing; one of the most drought-tolerant plants on this site once settled.
- Deadhead spent flowers to extend the bloom period.
- Cut back dead growth in late autumn once it dies down.
- Divide congested clumps every 2–3 years to keep them contained and vigorous.
04Problems
- Root rot — from poor drainage; ensure it's not sitting wet.
- Spreading beyond the bed — the main risk; divide regularly to keep it contained.
- Very few other pests — a hardy, easy-going perennial.
- Powdery mildew — humid, crowded conditions; space well for airflow.
05Harvest & storage
Signs
Flowers ready once petals fully open, usually from the first season onward.
Method
Snip whole flower heads once fully open; leaves can be picked any time.
Curing
Air-dry flowers and leaves on a tray out of direct sun.
Storage
Dried flowers keep for months in an airtight container.
Preserving
See Dehydrating for ways to keep a harvest surplus.
06Companions & rotation
Plant nearby
Other pollinator-friendly perennialsAvoid nearby
Few restrictions
Rotation note
Not applicable — long-lived perennial, spreads slowly by rhizome.
