Achillea

Achillea is the plant that is commonly called yarrow. It was named after the famous Greek warrior Achilles. It is considered that Achillea has some medical properties. Firstly it serves as shampoo. It is said the herb cures headaches, kidney infections, stop bleeding and assists in decreasing the severity of the common cold.

If the herb grows outside in a garden, it draws in bees, butterflies and birds. The smell of its crushed leaves is one of the most distinguished features of yarrow. The dried leaves possess a strong, pleasant and distinctive mint smell. They are often utilized as flavoring tea that some people regularly consume with great pleasure.

The herb is available from February till September. If it is cut out it may last during 4-7 days.

Nowadays, the herb is also widely used in garden walks and floral designs. The flowers’ colors are yellow, white, ping and red.  Thus, it represents a fascinating addition to mixed floral summer arrangements. Achillea dries well and its great advantage is long lasting for usage in dried designs.

Achillea millefolium

Raul654 - Under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2

Yarrow

Sweet Yarrow - Achillea ageratum
 
Alberto Salguero - Under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License

Yarrow - Red Achillea millefolium

Photo by Forest and Kim Starr