Yarrow

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Drought-Tolerant Pollinator Perennial for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 2–7)

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Quick Expert Summary

The Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a fast-growing, extremely cold-hardy perennial ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 2–7). It typically grows 1–2 ft per year and reaches 1–2.5 ft (0.3–0.8 m) at maturity. Best for dry gardens, rock gardens, and pollinator habitats, it offers long-lasting summer blooms and exceptional drought tolerance.

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Why Choose Yarrow for Ontario and Eastern Canada?

A rugged, low-maintenance native perennial that thrives in poor soils and harsh climates while supporting pollinators.

• Hardiness: Zone 2 (Ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 2–7)
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Best For: Ornament / Pollinator gardens / Rock gardens
• Maintenance: Low once established
• Key Feature: Flowers
• Native / Non-native: Native to North America

It adapts well to:

• Poor to average soils
• Sandy or rocky soils
• Well-drained, lime-tolerant soils
• Urban and rural environments
• Drought and dry conditions

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Plant Specifications

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Is Yarrow Right for Your Yard?

Choose Yarrow if:

• You want reliable blooms from early summer to fall
• You have a small to medium yard
• You live in Zone 2–7
• You want drought-tolerant colour and pollinator support
• You need a plant for dry borders, slopes, or rock gardens

Not ideal if:

• Your soil is heavy and poorly drained
• You need a plant for deep shade
• You want a strictly contained plant (it spreads by rhizomes)

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Best Uses

• Dry garden beds
• Rock gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Naturalized areas
• Slopes and erosion control

Why it works:
Yarrow forms dense, spreading clumps with finely textured foliage and long-lasting flower clusters. It thrives in poor soils and dry conditions while attracting bees and butterflies throughout the growing season.

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What Makes Yarrow Special?

A resilient native perennial combining beauty, durability, and ecological value.

• Spring: Fern-like foliage emerges, forming a dense base
• Summer: Flat clusters of white or pink flowers bloom abundantly
• Fall: Continued flowering with seed heads adding texture
• Winter: Dried stems provide structure and habitat

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Winter Survival in Ontario and Eastern Canada

Yes, Yarrow is hardy in Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 2–7 and tolerates extreme winter conditions including snow and freezing temperatures.

First-year tip:

• Add 2–3 inches of mulch
• Water deeply before the first hard frost
• Ensure good drainage to prevent winter rot

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Planting Guide for Ontario and Eastern Canada

Best planting time:

• Spring (April–June)
• Early fall (September–October)

Spacing:

• 1.5–2 ft from foundations
• 1.5–2 ft between plants

Watering (first year):

• Water moderately during the first 2–3 months
• Reduce watering as the plant establishes

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Quick Answers (FAQ)

Is it cold hardy in Ontario and Eastern Canada?
Yes. It is hardy to Zone 2 and performs well in Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 2–7.

What growing conditions does this plant need (sun and soil)?
Full sun and well-drained soils, even poor or sandy soils.

Is Yarrow good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. It is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Are the roots invasive?
Not invasive, but it spreads by rhizomes and should be managed if needed.

Is it messy?
Low. Deadheading improves appearance and prolongs flowering.

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Compare With Similar Perennials

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Shipping Across Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic Provinces

• Nursery-grown
• Carefully packaged
• Shipped to your door in Ontario and Eastern Canada
• Healthy root system guarantee (if applicable)

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