White Yarrow Achillea is a frost-hardy perennial that brings bright, pearl-white flower clusters to gardens across zones 3 through 9. This heirloom cultivar of Achillea millefolium develops distinctive fern-like foliage and establishes deep roots that make it remarkably self-sufficient once established. Known traditionally as a medicinal remedy and protective garden companion, it reaches harvest maturity by its second year and thrives in full sun with minimal water, flowering abundantly 120 days from seed.
Full Sun
Low
3-9
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Moderate
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White Yarrow stands out for its combination of practical toughness and genuine garden presence. The pearl-white flower clusters emerge above delicate, feathery foliage, creating an almost ethereal effect against a sunny border. Its deep root system makes it drought-tolerant and long-lived, while its reputation as a protective herb means it works hard for you in more ways than one.
White Yarrow serves primarily as a medicinal and culinary herb. Its leaves and flowers are dried and brewed into healing teas, traditionally used to support wellness. The flowers can also be used in dried arrangements and herbal crafts. As a garden plant, it functions as a companion to other perennials, known to protect neighboring plants and attract beneficial insects.
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Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Maintain soil temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for germination. Transplant seedlings to the garden after hardening off, once all danger of frost has passed.
Transplant hardened seedlings outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow room for mature spread.
Direct sow seeds in early spring as soil becomes workable, or in fall for spring germination. Press seeds onto soil surface; they need light to germinate.
Harvest flowers and foliage once the plant is well established, typically by mid to late summer of the second year. Pinch or cut flower clusters just as they reach full bloom for best potency in dried preparations. Cut stems in the morning after dew has dried but before heat sets in. Gather leaves as needed throughout the growing season.
Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage continued blooming and keep the plant looking tidy. In late fall or early spring, cut the entire plant back to 2 to 3 inches above ground level to rejuvenate it for the new growing season.
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“White Yarrow represents the classic story of a wildflower becoming a garden staple. Often called 'Common Yarrow,' this cultivar is listed as an heirloom variety, meaning it has been preserved and passed through generations of gardeners who recognized its value as both a medicinal plant and a robust, reliable grower. Its heritage speaks to communities who understood that the best garden plants are those that thrive on their own terms and offer multiple uses.”