Flower Library
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium · Asteraceae
Yarrow is the most robust summer meadow flower. Flat, umbel-like flower heads in white, yellow or pastel. Indispensable in wild-meadow bouquets, surprisingly long-lasting.
- Season
- June – July – August – September
- Vase life
- 7–14 days
- Latin name
- Achillea millefolium
- Colors
- White, Yellow, Apricot, Pink, Bordeaux
Season June to September. Easy to grow in gardens too, some florists cut from their own beds.
Yarrow dries excellently. High-summer cuts last as dried flowers 1–2 years.
Scent: slightly herbal-bitter. Some like it, others don't. In large quantities indoors the scent can stand out.
Is Yarrow toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Mildly irritating
- Cats
- Toxic
- Dogs
- Toxic
Toxic to cats, dogs and horses (ASPCA). Contains alkaloids and sesquiterpene lactones; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhoea and drooling, skin contact can irritate. Keep out of reach of pets.
Typical symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhoea and increased drooling; skin contact can cause irritation.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut at an angle, strip lower leaves.
- 02Water deep, change every 2–3 days.
- 03Keep cool.
- 04To dry: hang upside down in a dark dry place.
Frequently asked
- Does yarrow cause allergies?
- Rarely — some Asteraceae-allergy sufferers react. Pollen is usually low, skin contact sometimes irritating.
- Which colour is classic?
- White and yellow are wild-form colours. Apricot and bordeaux are modern florist cultivars.
- How long does yarrow last in the vase?
- Freshly cut 7 to 14 days. Deep, clean water and a cool spot extend it considerably. As a dried flower it lasts 1–2 years.
- Is yarrow toxic to cats and dogs?
- Yes. According to the ASPCA, yarrow is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and loss of appetite. Keep arrangements out of pets' reach.