Yarrow

Achillea millefolium L.

Family: Asteraceae

Perennial
Drought Tolerant
Pollinator Plant
Spreads Readily

Pet & Human Safety

Hazard to people and pets

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

Not a food plant; no preparation guidance is given.

Hazard type

contact dermatitis (skin irritation) from handling; NC State advises wearing gloves

Hazard route

skin

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

ASPCA lists yarrow as toxic to dogs, cats and horses; signs it lists include vomiting, diarrhea, colic, drooling, loss of appetite, skin irritation (dermatitis) and depression. NC State also flags it for cats, dogs and horses and advises keeping it away from where pets spend time; it gives no toxic principle. Both sources agree.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 3a-9b (NC State); RHS hardiness H7 (hardy below -20 C, UK)
Light: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sun)
Water needs: low
Mature size: Height 1-3 ft, width 1 ft to 3 ft 10 in (NC State). RHS gives 0.5-1 m tall and up to 0.5 m spread. Colorado State lists 1.5-2.5 ft tall, spreading to 3 ft.
Where it comes from: Temperate Europe, Asia and North America (NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox); grows in disturbed areas such as fields and roadsides.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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