Yarrow Achillea 'Schwellenburg'

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Schwellenburg Yarrow

• Common names

  Achillea 'Schwellenburg'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Yarrow (Achillea 'Schwellenburg') is not generally considered highly toxic to humans. Typically, yarrow is known for its use in herbal medicine. However, if ingested in large quantities, it could potentially be harmful. Symptoms of poisoning from large amounts of yarrow ingestion could include dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation. It's important to note that individuals with allergies to the Asteraceae family may have allergic reactions. As always, it is wise to exercise caution and not consume plants unless they are known to be safe and are prepared properly.

• To pets

  Yarrow (Achillea 'Schwellenburg') is also not generally known to be highly toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. However, if pets consume large amounts of yarrow, they might experience gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Skin irritation is also a possibility if pets come into contact with the plant. If you suspect your pet has ingested a considerable amount of yarrow and is showing symptoms of distress, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Spread

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  3-9

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Achillea 'Schwellenburg', commonly known as yarrow, is highly attractive to beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
• Drought Tolerance: Yarrow is well-adapted to dry conditions and can thrive with minimal watering once established, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
• Low Maintenance: It generally requires little care beyond occasional trimming to remove spent flower heads and promote further blooming.
• Deer Resistant: Yarrow is not a preferred choice for deer, which can make it a good option for gardens in areas with deer populations.
• Long Blooming Period: Yarrow has a long flowering season, often from early summer until fall, providing long-lasting color in the garden.
• Soil Improvement: It can improve soil conditions over time through its extensive root system, which helps to break up dense soil and increase aeration.
• Variety of Uses: Yarrow is versatile and can be used in flower beds, as border plants, in rock gardens, or as part of a wildflower meadow.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its feathery foliage and clusters of small, vibrant flowers, yarrow adds texture and visual interest to garden designs.
• Erosion Control: Its robust root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
• Companion Planting: Yarrow can be beneficial when planted near other species, as its aromatic nature can deter certain pests.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Achillea, commonly known as yarrow, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
• The dried flowers of yarrow are often incorporated into potpourri mixes for their color retention and subtle fragrance.
• Yarrow can play a role in permaculture gardens as a companion plant, helping to repel certain pests and improve the health of surrounding plants.
• Some gardeners use yarrow as a natural lawn alternative due to its durability and low-maintenance nature, which can withstand foot traffic.
• Yarrow flowers are occasionally used in the craft of making flower crowns or floral arrangements due to their long-lasting nature when cut.
• It can serve as a biodynamic composting herb, believed to contribute to the compost's nutritional value and decomposition process.
• Yarrow plants can be used for erosion control on slopes and banks as their root system helps to stabilize the soil.
• In vegetable gardens, yarrow can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which prey on garden pests.
• The stems of yarrow have been traditionally used for handcrafting purposes, such as creating small woven items or as natural plant stakes in gardens.
• Fresh yarrow leaves can be rubbed onto the skin as a traditional insect repellent, though care should be taken due to potential skin sensitivities.

Feng Shui

Yarrow is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Yarrow is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Healing: Achillea, commonly known as Yarrow, is named after Achilles, the Greek hero who used it to treat his soldiers' wounds. Therefore, it symbolizes healing.
• Courage: Due to its association with Achilles and his warriors, Yarrow also represents courage and valor in battle.
• Protection: Yarrow has been traditionally used in folk practices to ward off negative influences, thus symbolizing protection.
• Love Divination: In some cultures, Yarrow was used in rituals to divine the romantic future, symbolizing the quest for love knowledge.
• Endurance: The hardy nature of Yarrow, able to grow in challenging conditions, makes it a symbol of endurance and perseverance.