Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a common and versatile flowering plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is renowned for its feathery leaves and clusters of small white or pink flowers, which bloom from late spring to early autumn. Yarrow has a long history of medicinal and culinary use and is also valued for its ecological benefits.

In terms of habitat, Yarrow can be found in a variety of environments, including grasslands, meadows, roadsides, and open woodlands. It thrives in well-drained soils and is often found in sunny or partially shaded locations.

Yarrow is a valuable food source for pollinators, attracting a wide range of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects with its abundant nectar and pollen. Its flowers provide essential sustenance for these insects throughout the summer months.

Behaviourally, Yarrow exhibits a clumping growth habit, with multiple stems arising from a central root system. It is a hardy and resilient plant, capable of thriving in diverse environmental conditions.

With a relatively long lifespan, Yarrow can persist for several years, spreading through both seeds and rhizomes. It is known for its ability to naturalise and establish itself in a variety of landscapes.

Culturally, Yarrow has been revered for its medicinal properties for centuries. It has been used in traditional herbal medicine to treat various ailments, including wounds, fevers, and digestive issues. Additionally, Yarrow holds significance in folklore and mythology, with associations with divination and protection.

An interesting fact about Yarrow is its ability to accumulate nutrients from the soil, making it a useful companion plant in permaculture and organic gardening. It can help improve soil fertility and repel certain pests, making it a valuable addition to garden ecosystems.