Achillea millefolium (yarrow)

Achillea millefolium leaves

Leaf type: Pinnate, frond-like
Phyllotaxis: Alternate (stem leaves), rosette-like (basal leaves)
Colour: Green
Life cycle: Perennial

Leaf (upper side)

Achillea millefolium basal leaves
The pinnate leaves of Achillea millefolium look like small fronds. The photo shows the basal leaves after mowing in September.
Achillea millefolium basal leaf
The pinnate leaf consists of many leaflets.

Growth habit & biology

Achillea millefolium growth habit
Growth habit of a plant with pink flowers.

Achillea millefolium is a perennial plant that is evergreen in mild climates. In such regions, its basal leaves can be seen even in winter. Depending on the location, it can grow up to one meter tall. It spreads via seeds and rhizomes.

Achillea millefolium growth habit flowering
Growth habit of a white-flowering yarrow growing along the roadside.
Achillea millefolium after moving
Growth habit (basal leaves) of Achillea millefolium after mowing.

Distribution & habitates

Its native range includes Asia, Europe, and North America. As an introduced species, Achillea millefolium is also found regionally in Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and South America (source).

Achillea millefolium in meadow
Achillea millefolium in a meadow in early fall.

Habitats include meadows, ditches, embankments, slopes, and the sides of paths and roads. Achillea millefolium is also used as an ornamental plant in parks and gardens.

Achillea millefolium along path

Botany

This member of the daisy family (Asteraceae) is known as yarrow or common yarrow.

Yarrow Achillea millefolium