Common Yarrow

​​​​​Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.)

This plant is found throughout the old field, especially along the gravel path. It commonly occurs in disturbed locations in full sun, preferring well-draining soils such as those along the walkway.

Key identifying factors:

- Flowers are small and white, under 1/4" wide in umbels at the top of the plant. They flower throughout the summer, June - September.

- Alternate, deeply divided leaves in a lance shape, very finely dissected, frilly-looking leaves.

- Same mid-ground layer of vegetation as most of the rest of the field, so it can be hidden within the rest of the plant community.

This flower is loved by many pollinators- look for bees, flies, and butterflies flitting along and stopping by these fragrant flowers. Otherwise, it is not a big food source for other animals.

This is another lovely wild edible. It is very tasty as a tea and has been used medicinally for ailments such as headaches, intestinal pain, and heartburn. Take a nibble of these licorice-like flowers!