These upstarts can grow up to three feet tall with delicate feathery leaves. Their leaflets almost look like miniature ferns! The flowers bloom in pleasing large clusters. These days, there are a large variety of cheerful colors of this common perennial to choose from making them fit well into almost any garden: red, coral, pink, yellow and white. Dwarf varieties are available as well. They bring a common wildflower feel but add a solid showy floral display.
Yarrow is a like a chameleon as it fits into rock gardens, wildflower meadows or the traditional perennial border. Wherever you plant it do not plant it too close to each other (or other plants) as it needs good air circulation to prevent disease.
Interestingly enough these hardy flowers are hermaphrodites because they contain both male and female organs! Yarrow attracts all sorts of insect wildlife all summer as it is a repeat bloomer especially if deadheaded. Butterflies love to land on these floral landing pads! It is a versatile life form as it can can tolerate partial shade or drought and it doesn’t mind if you live by the ocean. It does not like wet areas though! They are basically a fantastic choice for a low maintenance plant.
To keep them looking fresh just snip off old flowerheads and yellow leaves towards the base of the plant. Keep the cut dead flowers as yarrow looks lovely in dried flower arrangements, holding its shape perfectly. You may want to divide your yarrow every few years if it begins to spread throughout your garden.
Photos via: stevendepolo, Elaine with Grey Cats
