Yarrow, Red

Red Yarrow is a hardy perennial grown for its flat-topped clusters of flowers in dark pink, ruby red, and deep carmine. The plant has finely divided, fern-like leaves and a strong, pungent scent. It reaches about 18 to 24 inches tall and wide, and grows best in full sun.

Native to Southern Europe, yarrow has been part of herb gardens for hundreds of years. In the wild it grows in dry fields, along roads, and on rocky hillsides. It handles dry western conditions and hot, humid weather about equally well. Well-drained soil of medium moisture suits it best, while heavy clay and rich, wet soils are a poor match.

The flowers attract honeybees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, and deer and rabbits tend to leave the plant alone. Blooms hold up well as fresh cut flowers and keep their color when dried. Grown near herbs as a companion plant, yarrow can increase their fragrance, flavor, and essential oils.

One thing to keep in mind: yarrow spreads through rhizomes and reseeding, and it can take over a garden where the soil stays moist. To hold it in place, grow it in 5 or 10 gallon plastic pots sunk partway into the ground.