This hardy perennial has been around for centuries and has a multitude of uses, including medicinal and culinary. As landscapers, we would love to share with you how this plant can add both beauty and function to your Colorado garden.
Thanks to Wikipedia for this image
Yarrow Plant Uses
The yarrow plant is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries for medicinal and culinary purposes. Its leaves and flowers are widely used in many cultures to treat various ailments such as fever, colds, and digestive problems. The herb is also used in teas, soups, and salads to add flavor. Yarrow is also known for its ability to repel insects and attract butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden.
Yarrow Plant Types
The common yarrow plant (Achillea millefolium) is the most common species of yarrow found worldwide. This plant grows well in Colorado and is known for its white or pink flowers. Additionally, there are many cultivars of the plant that have been developed, including yellow or red-flowered varieties. The yarrow plant is incredibly adaptable and can grow in almost any soil type and can tolerate both drought and cold temperatures.
Yarrow Plant Landscaping Uses
As landscapers, we find the yarrow plant to be incredibly versatile in garden design. Yarrow is often used in mass plantings or mixed borders and can be planted alongside other perennials or shrubs. The plant’s feathery foliage adds an interesting texture to the garden and can complement other plants in the landscape. Additionally, yarrow can be used to provide ground cover and erosion control on hillsides in Colorado.
Yarrow Plant Maintenance
Yarrow is relatively low maintenance and requires minimal care once established. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It does not require much watering but will benefit from occasional deep watering during drought periods. Yarrow can also be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
Yarrow Plant Design Ideas
Finally, there are many ways to incorporate yarrow into your Colorado landscape design. For example, the yellow-flowered cultivars of yarrow can brighten up a rock garden or create a stunning contrast alongside blue-toned plants like Russian sage. Red yarrow varieties can add bold color to a cottage garden or be used as an accent plant in mixed container gardens.
Yarrow may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Colorado garden design, but this plant’s ability to attract pollinators, repel insects, and provide a low maintenance source of color and texture, makes it a standout choice. As a landscaper, I love using the common yarrow plant in my designs and seeing the beauty it brings to outdoor spaces. So the next time you’re looking to add some interest to your garden, consider adding this versatile and hardy perennial to your landscape design plan.
