Greetings to all readers, wishing all of you a beautiful year. Now it is early spring, still the cold of the winter is in the memory of our bodies, and in Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Arkansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Minnesota the wildfires remind us that something is changing in the temperature, in the moisture of the air, in the climate. May these and all fires causing anguish cease.
In this issue, I want to share with all of you the Historian Report of Katya Wesely, one of the students of our 2023 cohort of the Organic Seed Production course. The 2023 cohort of the class was excellent and the quality of the crop tracking projects (one of the main assignments of the course) was very high. However, in my opinion Katya’s work was outstanding, the way that Katya’s perspective is shared felt very complete and powerful to me. I edited it a bit for clarity (after asking Katya for consent) unfortunately, we do not ask the students to write a bibliography or list of sources for the report, so that part is missing. I hope all of you enjoy this report that Katya shared with us. I want to use this opportunity to express my gratitude to Katya and all other students of the course for their participation in the class and for their patience and presence, also for the work that they do in the fields and in the gardens as organic farmers, capturing carbon, growing seed, feeding people, and cooling the planet.
-Ana Galvis
Yarrow: A Plant Profile and Seed Historian Report
By Katya Wesely
Katya Wesley is a BIPOC farmer, herbalist, healer and educator working in a 1 acre urban farm named Seed to Seed Apothecary and Sweetleaf Healing located in Minneapolis.
Achillea millefolium, or more commonly known as Yarrow, is a perennial herb that has a long history of use in traditional medicine, herbalism, witchcraft and more. The plant is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere in Asia, Europe, and North America, as well as among other lands undocumented. This herb has naturalized in many other regions, and to this day, Yarrow is widely celebrated and worked with around the world for numerous reasons and causes.
My Relationship With Yarrow
I personally choose to work with the herb Yarrow for my “crop” tracking project because this plant is profoundly meaningful in my life as a protective friend and powerful ally. She/They enriches soils, guards the interdimensional health of souls and adds beauty to fields, meadows, gardens and open forests; wherever she goes. Year after year, this deeply feminine plant-being welcomes us in her perennial nature. These plants are some of the first plants to extend their feathery leaves outward come spring and exhibit remarkable growth, making it visible, as well as apparent this is, indeed, growing season.
Yarrow is carefree, growing rapidly in different kinds of environments and terrain. She can be found in every single state and province in North America, as well as most places hospitable to vegetation in the world. Almost anywhere I go, I can see Yarrow and I am instantly reminded I am protected. Whether it is harvesting Yarrow smudge bundles to pass on during Juneteenth, (together with my saliva) making a healing poultice, or teaching Community about the strength and support offered by this plant, I am dedicated to sharing her healing properties, especially with black and brown bodied beings. Like an umbrella shields from rain, the tiny umbels of yarrow protect and shield from negativity or toxicity in a way that builds wholeness for the self and compassion toward others.
I hope that by sharing a little bit about Yarrow, the research compiled and varying relationships to the plant (including my own), that the reader may grow a little more in appreciation for this Plant Spirit. In the world we live in, many people can benefit from healing, protective properties Yarrow extends to us. This herb is generally safe to take internally and externally, but there are some possible side effects and contradictions such as potential allergies (particularly if you know you are allergic to asters), skin irritation, not safe for pregnant people nor for those on blood thinning medication. When considering the use of yarrow for culinary or medicinal purposes, it’s advised to consult reliable sources, experts in herbalism or healthcare providers to ensure safe and appropriate usage.
How Was Yarrow Domesticated?
Yarrow was likely domesticated through a process of human appreciation, selection and cultivation over thousands of years. Here’s a general overview of how plants such as Yarrow are typically domesticated:
• Observation and use by Indigenous People: Yarrow has been used for medicinal, ritual, culinary, first aid and more by indigenous people for centuries. They would have observed the plant’s characteristics, including (but not limited to) growth habits, flowering pattern, reproductive propensities, seed yield, disease susceptibility, and the diversity of forms and colors in the wild.
• Selection of desirable traits: Over time, as people used Yarrow for various purposes, they likely started selecting plants with desirable traits. This could include choosing plants with larger, more fragrant flowers, or those with more potent medicinal properties.
• Cultivation: As people became more familiar with Yarrow, the plant’s characteristics, healing properties, Spirit and cultivation requirements, they would have started intentionally planting Yarrow in gardens or fields, homes and gardens, providing favorable conditions for growth. This process yields the transition from wild Yarrow to cultivated varieties.
• Propagation: Yarrow can be propagated from seeds, rhizomes, or by division. By selecting plants with the desired traits and using these methods to propagate
them, early farmers could increase the yield of Yarrow with the characteristics they valued.
• Improvement Over Generations: Domestication is an ongoing process. Over many generations of cultivation and selective breeding, Yarrow plants with specific traits would become more prevalent, and undesirable traits would be minimized. Finally seeds and plants spread through trade, animals and other earthly currents leading to the distribution of these cultivated varieties. Yarrow, like many other plants, may have been domesticated independently in different regions by different cultures. This can lead to the development of distinct varieties with unique characteristics.
Today there are many cultivated varieties of Yarrow with various flower colors and this plant continues to be used for medicinal, culinary, ornamental and for ground cover purposes.
Ancestors
The rediscovery of “La Ciudad Blanca” demonstrates what many of us know: that science, documentation and records are incomplete. The recent discoveries in the Mosquitia Rainforest of Honduras are a prime example. Not only did scientists find species previously unrecorded in Honduras, but they also recorded a new species ‘unknown to Science before’.
There are also instances of reclassification. Latin science has become the primary looked upon source demarcating plant families, criteria and classifications. It’s important to note that colonization has disrupted other ways of relating to plant kin, botanical sciences and agroecological wisdom, that are also equally valid. For that reason, we can only speculate who Yarrow has for ancestors. I will be clear in naming the Latin paradigm of plant order I will use next to look at possible Yarrow lineages, but also acknowledge flaws in western science and my fervent belief that western science will never give us the whole picture or any absolute truths (example: the way the British Royal Society Exhibits Exclusivity and Erasure to Research Findings That Do Not Agree with Their Objectives or Pre-Established Belief Systems.). Indigenous Tribes of Turtle Island (as well as Indigenous People elsewhere), believe in very different ways of relating with plant kin and it is this sort of relationship with ecosystems health, food justice, cultural practices, determination over our own health + food sovereignty influence my practice and belief. The connectedness in the web of relationships. Humans are a relatively younger sibling; we have much to learn from plant, animal, mushroom spirits and intelligence.
Looking at Lineage through Latin Classification
Achillea millefolium is part of the Achillea genus within the Asteraceae family, one of the largest genus. Within this genus, there are several wild species who are likely closely related to the cultivated yarrow we are familiar with today. The exact species that served as the direct wild ancestor of cultivated yarrow may not be definitively identified, however some of the closely related wild species include:
Achillea collina (Hillside Yarrow)
Achillea ptarmica (Sneezewort)
Achillea nobilis (Noble Yarrow)
Achillea asiatica (Asian Yarrow)
Achillea tomentosa (Wooly Yarrow)
These are just a few examples of plant species within the Achillea genus that are related to yarrow. While they share certain botanical characteristics, each species may also have its own unique traits and adaptations. The process of plant domestication often involves complex interactions between wild species and subpopulations. Chrysanthemum, chamomile and sunflowers are also purported to be closely related, additional members of the Achillea family.
Cultivated Yarrow we see today may have multiple genetic contributions from multiple wild Yarrow populations and species making it challenging to pinpoint a single wild ancestor definitively. This plant is highly adaptable to various climates, likely contributing to the plant’s domestication and cultivation by different cultures in different
regions over time. As a result, cultivated yarrow varieties may have diverse genetic backgrounds with contributions from various wild populations and species.
Cultural Origin of Yarrow, History and Traditional Uses
Yarrow has been associated with many traditions and practices throughout history in various places throughout the world. These traditions often revolve around the plant’s medicinal properties, spiritual and ritual properties, folklore, and symbolic significance. Here are some of the general traditions and practices associated with yarrow:
• Medicinal Use: Yarrow has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine. It has been used to treat various ailments, including wounds, digestive issues, and fevers. Yarrow contains compounds with potential medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects.
• Culinary Uses: In some culinary traditions, yarrow leaves and flowers have been used as a seasoning or flavoring agent in dishes, particularly in salads. The mild, bitter taste can add a unique flavor to foods. While yarrow is not a commonly consumed food, the leaves and flowers are edible.
• Horticultural Use: Yarrow is popular in ornamental gardening and has been for a long time simply due to the plant’s attractive feathery leaves and colorful flowers. Different yarrow cultivars with varying colors and growth habits are often used for decorative purposes today as well.
• Agricultural Use: Yarrow has been utilized in some agricultural practices as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects or improve soil quality.
• Spiritual and Ritual Uses: In certain spiritual and ritual practices, yarrow has been used for purification, protection and as an offering to deities or spirits.
Cultural significance and uses vary widely among different cultures and civilizations, but it’s certain that Yarrow has a rich cultural history with origins that can be traced to various regions around the world, both historically and in contemporary practices. Here are some of the cultures and regions where yarrow has been and continues to be significant:
• Ancient Greece and Rome: The genus name “Achillea” is derived from the legendary Greek hero Achilles, who was said to have used yarrow to treat wounds during the Trojan War. Yarrow was associated with healing and was used in medicinal practices in both ancient Greece and Rome. It was also used as a strewing herb and in religious rituals.
• Native American Cultures: Native American tribes in North America have a long history of using yarrow for medicinal purposes. It was used to treat various ailments, including wounds, fevers, and digestive issues. Yarrow has also been used ceremonially by some tribes.
• Chinese Traditional Medicine: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), yarrow is known as “ai yao” and has been used for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat conditions like fevers, wounds and skin issues, among other health concerns. One of the most well-known divination systems involving yarrow is the I Ching, an ancient Chinese text that uses yarrow stalks or coins for divination and guidance.
• European Folklore and Use: Yarrow has a strong presence in European folklore and herbal traditions. The plant is used for divination, as an ingredient in herbal remedies, and for protection against evil spirits; used in various protective ritual, such as hanging the plant above doorways or placing it under pillows to ward off malevolent forces. Yarrow was also used in brewing herbal beers and ales. Yarrow was commonly used as a medicinal herb in Europe for treating wounds, digestive disorders, and other ailments. It was also used in traditional herbal teas and remedies.
• Asian Cultures: Yarrow has historical uses in various Asian cultures, including its incorporation into traditional herbal medicine systems. In addition to its medicinal applications, it has been used for culinary and cosmetic purposes.
• Modern Herbalism: Yarrow remains a significant herb in modern herbalism. Yarrow is often included in herbal formulations, flower essences and teas for its purported anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, as well as promoting the healing of digestive disorders. Additionally, Yarrow is used in vaginal steams, and other women’s health applications.
These traditions and practices highlight the versatility of yarrow and the historical and cultural significance. Yarrow continues to be appreciated and utilized in various ways in different cultures around the world. Today, this plant continues to be appreciated for its beauty and health benefits.
It’s important to note that due to actions such as (but not limited to) erasure, church politics, colonization, imperialism and the enforcing of societal norms that lead to lapses in due process, this list is most assuredly incomplete. Many indigenous spiritual practices around the world are demonized, discredited and deemed delusion. With loving eyes looking at past, present, future, we clearly see this violence inflicted on African, Aboriginal, Indigenous, Detribalized, Diasporic, Enslaved Survivors, Migrant, Immigrant Communities, even Pagans and Witches, Mystics and Esoterics for simply living and believing differently. Since yarrow has such a rich association with divination and protection, as well as such popularity in the matters of spiritual, ritual, psychic dimensions.
It would be too great in bias and ignorance of importance to exclude these varied communities. I am familiar with Yarrow as plant and spirit, holding unique healing propensities, properties and characteristics; my herbal understanding is influenced by energetics, elements, astrology, mythology and other aspects of folk medicine. Yet I am certainly not an expert in all affairs and matters. Therefore I do not possess the authority to speak with precision. Instead I will name different cultural spiritualities and various examples of rituals or beliefs relating to or Involving the alchemy of Yarrow.
Sorcerers, esoterics and mystics from various backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, especially witches, hoodoo priestess, voodoo manbos, brujeria, santeria, paganism, astrology, xi gong, kundalini yoga, energetic / folk herbalism, those practicing the occult arts, have either been looked down upon or persecuted in mass numbers throughout generations past. However, today, we see a strong resurgence of people expressing interest or practicing these traditions, and getting in touch with their indigenous traditions, spiritualities and folk ways of life. It is not possible for me to provide a comprehensive list as I mentioned earlier. I’ve combined various sources to provide examples of how Yarrow has been used with some traditions of pagans, esoterics, energy spiritualist or witches predominantly with examples in Asia, Europea, and with the Indigenous People of North America; this list is enmeshed, simply to paint an overall picture of possibilities and does not describe one particular lineage of tradition. Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that some healers, herbalists, and different forms of folk herbalism may incorporate some (but not all) of these beliefs or understanding, informing their praxis as well. In various cultures, yarrow has been used in spiritual and ritualistic contexts, often associated with divination, protection, and other symbolic purposes.
Beyond healing and medicinal purposes, here are other documented uses of Yarrow:
• Divination, Fortune-Telling and Clairvoyance: Yarrow was used in divination practices. The stalks or leaves were used to cast lots, similar to the way one might use runes. The arrangement of the yarrow stems or leaves would be interpreted to gain insights or answers to questions. This specific practice of divination has central ties to China and belief in the spirituality of plans, rocks or elements is fairly common in many Asian countries.
• Protection and Warding: Yarrow is considered by many to be a protective herb. Witches might use it to create charms, sachets, or talismans to ward off negative energies, evil spirits, or hexes. It was also believed that yarrow could be used to create a protective boundary or circle during rituals or spellwork. We may see yarrow being used by African Americans who carry mojo bags as well, used for protection or, depending on the herbs combined, it is believed to bring good fortune, prosperity or promote clarity and universal wisdom. Yarrow is considered one of the sacred life medicines of the southwestern Navajo tribe. The Anishinaabe attribute deeply spiritual values and regard the plant as sacred along with plants such as sweetgrass, sage, cedar and tobacco. Related to sweetgrass and cedar, yarrow wards off negative energy, where sweetgrass attracts positive energy and cedar helps maintain balance. Yarrow has documented use for purification.
• Love and Relationship Magic: Yarrow was sometimes used in love spells or charms to attract a lover or strengthen romantic relationships; Believed to possess properties that could enhance love and attraction.
• Astral Travel and Dream Work: some practitioners believed that yarrow could aid in astral travel or lucid dreaming. It was sometimes included in incense blends or teas for these purposes.
• Psychic and Spiritual Work: Yarrow to enhance their psychic abilities or to strengthen their connection with the spiritual realm. Again, many Native American tribes also believed in Yarrow’s ability to ward off negative energy, and the plants propensity to protect the psychic realm.
- Herbal Baths and Ritual Cleansing: Yarrow could be added to ritual baths, used in smudging ceremonies or even hung to purify and cleanse the body, mind, and spirit.
- Enhancing Magical Potency: Yarrow was believed to have the ability to enhance the power of spells and rituals. It was sometimes included in spell components or used as an incense or oil.
• Offerings and Altar Decorations: Yarrow’s dried flowers or leaves were sometimes used as offerings on altars dedicated to certain deities or spirits.
It’s important to note that the specific uses and cultural significance of yarrow can vary both within and between cultures. While the plant has a rich history in many regions, its uses may have evolved over time, and different cultures may have developed unique traditions and beliefs related to this versatile herb.
Native American Connections, Traditional Practices and Use With Yarrow
Yarrow holds significance on Turtle Island and there is a long history of working with this plant among many Native American cultures. Its importance in this region is tied to Yarrow’s traditional medicinal uses, indigeneity to this land, cultural significance, and continued utilization for various purposes. Later on in the section, we will look at some specific Tribes, as well as their relationship with and thoughts on this plant. Here’s how yarrow is significant to Turtle Island (North America) among Indigenous people and to the plants popularity and use today:
Traditional Medicine: Yarrow has a long history of use in Native American traditional medicine. Various Native American tribes used yarrow for its medicinal properties. It was employed to treat a range of ailments, including wounds, fevers, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions. The plant’s leaves and flowers were often prepared as infusions or poultices for medicinal use.
Ceremonial and Spiritual Uses: Yarrow had ceremonial and spiritual significance in some Native American cultures. It was used as part of rituals and ceremonies, often in combination with other plants. Yarrow was considered a sacred herb by some tribes and was used in purification rituals.
Food and Forage: Yarrow’s leaves and flowers have been consumed in some indigenous cultures as a food source. They were sometimes used in salads or as a seasoning, adding a mild, bitter flavor to dishes. Additionally, the plant provided forage for wildlife.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services: Yarrow is a native plant in North America, and it plays a role in supporting biodiversity. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it ecologically significant in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Yarrow also improves the health of soils with Her/Their deep roots accumulating potassium, phosphorus and copper from the subsoil. Additionally as a compost activator to speed decomposition, roots can help break up compacted soil or reduce erosion of light and friable soils. Yarrow’s ability to mine copper provides an important micronutrient for plant growth and essential amendment for acidic soils.
Modern Herbalism: Yarrow remains an important herb in modern herbalism in North America. Herbalists and natural health enthusiasts value it for its potential health benefits, such as its anti-inflammatory properties. It is used in herbal formulations and teas to address various health concerns.
Landscaping and Gardening: Yarrow is appreciated for its ornamental qualities, including its feathery leaves and colorful flowers. Many North American gardeners include cultivated varieties of yarrow in their gardens and landscaping projects.
Conservation Efforts: Due to its ecological importance and cultural significance, efforts have been made to conserve native yarrow populations in North America. Conservation organizations work to protect and preserve native plant species, including yarrow.
Yarrow’s significance in North America is a testament to its versatility and adaptability as a plant. It has played a role in the traditional practices and cultures of indigenous peoples and continues to have relevance in modern herbalism, gardening and native landscaping. Additionally, its ecological contributions make it valuable in supporting local ecosystems.
I live on the ancestral and occupied territories of the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Wahpekute, Dakota and Anishinaabe people – past, present and future. The name of this midwestern state, Minnesota, comes from what the Dakota people originally called this place, “Mni Sota Makoce”, the land where the water reflects the skies. In the twin cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul), we are on occupied Dakota land. Due to settler colonial violence, genocide, forced removal of the Dakota people to various places, boarding schools carrying out erasure, e. t. c. .. It can be difficult to find information. Additionally, as an oral oriented culture if there is information, it may not be readily available.
The Lakota are another Native American tribe. Both Dakota and Lakota tribes are part of the Sioux Confederacy who speak different but similar dialects. Linda Black Elk, a Lakota Elder shares Culturally Important Plants of the Lakota shares and names ȟaŋté čhaŋȟ lóǧ aŋ, tȟaópi pȟežút (Common Yarrow). She Writes:
“Poultice of dried leaves and flowers used to heal spider and other insect bites. Wad of moistened leaves put in outer ear to cure earache. Poultice made from the whole plant applied to wounds to stop bleeding. Leaves chewed for toothache. Leaves rubbed on irritated skin to relieve itching. An infusion made from leaves used to treat stomach pains, coughing, and sore throat. An infusion is also used to stimulate sweating and urination, as a mild laxative, to cleanse/detoxify the blood, to cure female organ problems and heal internal bleed. There are so many other applications for this plant.”
Dakato People may use yarrow in similar ways as other tribes and may have their own stories and wisdom around this plant as well. I would need to speak to Dakota medicine men and medicine women to know in greater detail.
The Ojibwe have used yarrow as a medicinal herb. It was often combined with other herbs to create herbal remedies for a wide range of health conditions. The leaves and flowers were infused in hot water to make teas for treating colds and fevers. An Anishinaabe, (Ojibwe) medicine woman I know recommends it to help with Lyme disease.
Beyond the region where I live, here are some other Native American Tribes that have relationship with Yarrow:
The Southwestern Dinẻ (Navajo) worked with yarrow for the inherent medicinal properties. They prepared yarrow as an infusion by steeping the leaves and flowers in hot water and then using the liquid to treat stomach aches, colds, and fevers. Yarrow was also used in Dinẻ ceremonies as a Sacred “Life Medicine” to promote health and well-being. Clearly Yarrow held deep significance to these people long ago to Today, we can see these teachings being passed on.
• Blackfeet (including many tribes): The Blackfeet tribe used yarrow as a medicinal herb. Yarrow leaves and flowers were crushed and applied as poultices to wounds and cuts to stop bleeding and promote healing. It was also used to make a medicinal tea for treating colds and fevers.
• Ani’-Yun’wia’ (Cherokee): The Ani’-Yun’wia’/Cherokee used yarrow for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes. Medicinally, yarrow was used to make a tea for treating digestive issues, fevers, and headaches. In Cherokee ceremonies, yarrow was sometimes included as part of purification rituals.
• Tsis tsis’tas (Cheyenne): The Tsis tsis’tas tribe used yarrow for medicinal purposes. Yarrow leaves and flowers were boiled to make a medicinal tea, whichwas used to treat digestive problems and to promote sweating as a remedy for fever.
• Haudenosaunee (Iroquois): The Iroquois people used yarrow as a medicinal plant. The plant was brewed into a tea for the treatment of stomachaches and as a remedy for colds and fevers. Yarrow was also used ceremonially by some Haudenosaunee communities.
• Nimiipuu (Nez Perce): The Nez Perce tribe used yarrow as a traditional medicine. They applied yarrow poultices to wounds to stop bleeding and promote healing. Yarrow was also made into teas for treating colds and other ailments.
It’s important to note that the specific uses and methods of preparation for yarrow could vary among different tribes and regions. Yarrow was valued for its healing properties and its role in traditional indigenous healing practices. Additionally, it often had cultural and ceremonial significance within these communities, highlighting its importance in Native American cultures.
Yarrow Seed Stewards, Breeders and Seed Companies
In the world of cultivated varieties, it can be very difficult to find information on parent lines. These details may not be readily available due to patents and privacy afforded to a breeder. Although I don’t know much about the process, I do know Yarrow is well-adapted with the ability to crossbreed. I would guess that this is the primary method to bring new cultivars into existence, but there are certainly other ways such as editing genomes or controlling growing conditions over many generations.
Many Yarrow cultivars have been created by various breeders. For example, Walter’s Garden Inc. created ‘Saucy Seduction’ in 2010. Again, some information about breeders is more readily available. Here is a list of other Yarrow cultivars that have been created within the last 50 years:
• Achillea millefolium ‘Paprika’ (2003)
◦ Description: ‘Paprika’ is a cultivar known for its bright red flowers, making it a popular choice for adding vibrant color to gardens and floral arrangements.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Moonshine’ (1983)
◦ Description: ‘Moonshine’ is valued for its bright yellow flowers and silver-gray foliage. It’s a compact cultivar that is well-suited for borders and rock gardens.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Summer Pastels’ (1975)
◦ Description: ‘Summer Pastels’ is a mix of yarrow cultivars that produce a range of soft, pastel-colored flowers including pinks, yellows, and whites. It’s popular for its delicate and romantic appearance.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Saucy Seduction’ (2010)
◦ Description: This cultivar boasts striking raspberry-red flowers and a compact growth habit. It’s known for its long-lasting blooms and is attractive to pollinators.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Coronation Gold’ (1985)
◦ Description: ‘Coronation Gold’ is recognized for its large, flat clusters of golden-yellow flowers. It’s a vigorous cultivar that adds a bold splash of color to garden beds.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Strawberry Seduction’ (2007)
◦ Description: This cultivar features bright strawberry-red flower clusters atop silvery-green foliage. It’s known for its long bloom period and compact growth habit.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Sunny Seduction’ (2011)
◦ Description: ‘Sunny Seduction’ offers bright yellow flower clusters on sturdy stems. It’s a reliable cultivar that brings a cheerful presence to the garden.
• Achillea millefolium ‘Apple Blossom’ (1990)
◦ Description: ‘Apple Blossom’ is characterized by soft pink flowers that fade to cream as they mature. It’s a dainty and elegant cultivar that complements many garden styles.
Ease of Cultivation
◦ Yarrow is generally considered easy to grow, especially in regions with temperate climates like North America. It is a hardy perennial plant that can adapt to a wide range of soil types and conditions.
◦ Yarrow is often propagated from seeds, but it can also be propagated by division or root cuttings.
◦ It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is drought-tolerant once established.
◦ Yarrow can grow rapidly in some garden settings, so it’s important to manage its growth if needed.
SEED STEWARDSHIP is the process of saving seeds with the purpose of maintaining or improving that seed’s health and resilience. It also includes the act of saving and selecting a variety over a period of many seasons; the end goal is passing them onto others in the future with integrity.
There are many seed stewards of yarrow, from individuals saving seeds, community seed libraries and leaders in seed stewardship with affinity for this plant, there are many players in this game.
It’s important to note that not every seed company or business is created the same.
Monsanto, Syngents, et. al, creates a reliance on their stock, dependent on pesticides and the loss of integrity of culturally important crops. Here are some seed companies that commercially sell Yarrow and lean more toward stewardship rather than extractive models:
• Truelove Seeds
• True Leaf Market
• Johnny’s Selected Seeds
• Roundstone Seed
• Smoke Camp Crafts
• Fedco Seeds, Prairie Moon Nursery and many more
Yarrow’s Adaptability: Thriving in Minnesota
In Minnesota, yarrow exhibits many adaptive traits that enable it to survive and thrive in the state’s climate and environmental conditions. Some of these adaptive traits include:
• Drought Tolerance: Yarrow is well-adapted to regions with variable moisture levels. Its deep taproot allows it to access water stored deep in the soil during periods of drought, making it relatively drought-tolerant once established.
• Cold Tolerance: Yarrow is a perennial plant that can tolerate cold temperatures, including the cold winters of Minnesota. It goes dormant during the winter months and re-sprouts in the spring.
• Sun Tolerance: Yarrow is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can be found growing in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides in Minnesota, taking advantage of available sunlight.
• Soil Adaptability: Yarrow is adaptable to a range of soil types, including well-drained sandy soils and loamy soils. It can grow in moderately fertile to poor soils and is often found in disturbed or rocky areas.
• Resilience to Grazing: Yarrow’s feathery leaves contain bitter compounds that make it unpalatable to many herbivores. This adaptation can help it withstand grazing pressure from wildlife.
• Long Flowering Period: Yarrow has a long flowering period, typically from late spring to early fall. This extended blooming time provides opportunities for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to visit its flowers.
• Reproduction through Rhizomes and Seeds: Yarrow reproduces both through rhizomes (underground stems) and seeds. This ability to spread and establish itself through rhizomes helps it compete and persist in various environments.
• Allelopathic Properties: Yarrow has allelopathic properties, which means She can release chemicals into the soil that inhibit the growth of nearby competing plants, giving it a competitive advantage.
• Medicinal Compounds: Yarrow produces compounds with potential medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. These compounds may help protect the plant from pathogens and herbivores.
• Attractive to Pollinators: Yarrow’s flat-topped flower clusters are rich in nectar and attract a variety of pollinators, which can facilitate cross-pollination and seed production.
These adaptive traits make yarrow a versatile and resilient plant in Minnesota’s diverse ecosystems, from prairies and meadows to roadsides and disturbed areas. Its ability to withstand a range of environmental conditions contributes to its success as a native and naturalized species in the state.
Minnesota growers who sell yarrow (in a more ethical way)
• Prairie Moon Nursery
• Red Clover Apothecary
• Seven Songs Organic Farm