Common Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
A feathery, flat-topped wildflower with clusters of tiny white (or sometimes pink) blooms and deeply divided ferny leaves. One of the most useful and widespread native plants in North America.
Field Note
Yarrow is named after Achilles of Greek mythology — legend says he used it to stop the bleeding of his soldiers' wounds on the battlefield. Its Latin name 'millefolium' means 'a thousand leaves' — look closely at those feathery leaves!
Where to Spot It at ABNC
Open grassland, trail edges, and the Pollinator Garden. Look for flat-topped clusters of tiny white flowers on knee-high stems from June through September.
Why It Matters
Common Yarrow is one of the most important native plants for pollinators — its flat flower heads are landing pads for over 50 insect species. It also improves soil and fixes nitrogen.
Good to Know
Yarrow has been used as a medicine plant for thousands of years — even ancient Greek soldiers used it! Now it's a favourite of bees and butterflies in ABNC's Pollinator Garden.