Yarrow is a perennial an herb that can be used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. The dried flower can also be used in crafts. Yarrow produces a fern-like foliage and tall stems that have small heads of flowers in white, pink and yellow. It’s a vigorous grower and can be used in rock gardens or on banks. Depending upon the conditions, yarrow can grow from 2 to 24 in. (1-60cm) tall. It is suitable for USDA zones 3 to 8.
 

Yarrow has been valued since ancient times for its ability to stop bleeding, hence its folk name "nosebleed." Today, yarrow is valued for its ability to fight off colds and flu. It is also an ingredient in many herbal cosmetics. Dried and cut flowers are used in arrangements.

Ideal Location- Yarrow likes full sun, well drained light soil. It can tolerate poor soil and can grow in sunny areas where few other plants can grow.

Cultivation- Propagate from seeds, by root division or from woody cuttings taken in autumn or spring. Yarrow can take a year or two to establish them from seed. Place the plants 1-2 ft (30-60 cm.) apart and divide the clumps when they become crowded. Taller cultivars may need to be staked, especially if grown in very fertile soil.

Water the yarrow deeply on an occasional basis. This plant has deep roots and will find water at lower levels in the soil. Yarrow will rot if the soil stays wet for long periods of time. It does not need any plant food and other than over watering has no particular problems.

Harvesting- Begin to harvest the yarrow when the plants are in the early stages of full bloom. Pick the leafy stems and flowers on a dry morning, tie them together and hang them upside down in a dry, dim, airy place. If you are using them for crafts, hang each flower separately.

Uses- Yarrow is used in herbal medicine, some cosmetics, potpourri, and for decorative crafts. Yarrow can be taken internally as a tea, as with many herbs, Yarrow is believed to aid in digestion and possibly increase appetite. In case of common cold and fever, it causes the body to perspire, thereby eliminating toxins causing the illness. As with an herb yarrow should not be taken during pregnancy.