Common Name: Common Yarrow
Family: Asteraceae
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Native Range: Nebraska and throughout North America
Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Height: 2.0 to 3.0 feet
Spread: 2.0 to 3.0 feet
Bloom Time: June to September
Bloom Description: Dense clusters of tiny, white flowers
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Water Needs: Dry to medium
Soil Preference: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils
Management Level: Low to medium
Suggested Use: Naturalize, prairie gardens, pollinator beds
Attracts: Butterflies, bees, beneficial insects
Tolerates: Drought, poor soils, deer, air pollution
Notable Features: Aromatic foliage, excellent cut flower, long bloom season
Nebraska Growing Notes:
Common yarrow is a tough, drought-tolerant perennial that performs exceptionally well in Nebraska’s variable climate. It thrives in full sun and lean soils, making it a staple in xeriscapes and native plant gardens across the state. It’s often seen along roadsides, in prairies, and naturalized meadows, where it spreads by rhizomes and seed to form dense colonies.
While cultivars are available in a variety of colors, white-flowering yarrow remains a foundational plant in Nebraska pollinator gardens. Cutting stems back after the first flush of blooms encourages a second round of flowering and helps reduce floppiness.
Landscape Use:
Perfect for prairie-style gardens, pollinator habitats, rock gardens, and low-maintenance borders, yarrow also works well as a cut or dried flower. In Nebraska landscapes, it’s often used to fill open, sunny spaces where color, texture, and resilience are needed.
Caution:
Yarrow can spread aggressively and may outcompete less vigorous species if unmanaged. Regular thinning or containment may be necessary in formal garden settings.
Garden Locations:
3, 4, 13
Sources:
https://plants.usda.gov/plant-profile/CODR
https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b282
https://www.stockseed.com/Shop/native-wildflowers/western-yarrow