Yarrow

Yarrow

Waabigwan Mashkiki
Achillea millefolium

Waabigwan Mashkiki – The Healing Flower

Waabigwan Mashkiki is a resilient perennial known for its finely divided leaves and broad, flat clusters of white summer flowers. In Anishinaabe understanding, many meadow herbs carry strong medicinal associations — plants that support balance, healing, and protection within both land and people.

A Native Meadow Healer

Yarrow grows in open meadows, prairies, roadsides, and sandy clearings. Its umbrella-like flower heads bloom through summer, attracting a wide diversity of pollinators. Aromatic foliage forms a dense groundcover that withstands drought and disturbance, making it one of the most adaptable native meadow species.

Planting Waabigwan Mashkiki strengthens prairie resilience and builds biodiversity in sunny landscapes.

Growing Information

Height: 1–3 ft

Spread: 1–2 ft (spreads by rhizomes)

Light: Full sun

Soil: Dry to moderately moist, well-drained

Hardiness: Zone 3–9

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

Best planted in prairie restorations, meadow gardens, pollinator strips, and erosion-prone slopes. Thrives in lean soils and tolerates drought once established.

Ecological Importance

Waabigwan Mashkiki:

• Provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects

• Hosts Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) larvae

• Stabilizes soil in open habitats

• Contributes to long-season pollinator support

Often planted in drifts where it can weave through meadow plantings, adding structure and medicinal heritage to restored ecosystems.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive 🌱
Origin Native Plants 🌱

3.5 inch Pots