Yarrow is extremely easy to grow and will tolerate a variety of soil textures. Good for xeric landscaping, yarrow takes little water once established with a medium high tolerance to temporary drought conditions. All varieties like full sun and will withstand cold temperatures well below what is experienced in the basin and range environments. Soil conditions can vary, just be sure to provide a well drained space.
There are many types of yarrow, including dwarf types. The one pictured here produces yellow topped flowers on tall stems that are good for cutting and drying. Butterflies and honeybees love this plant. Other colors include white, pink, deep pink and crimson red. The foliage tends to be more fragrant than the flowers.
Yarrow works well as a ground cover in xeric landscaping and in rock gardens. The plants can be divided for propagation and will naturalize if helped along. They do very well in containers, too. Harvest the dried flower stems in late autumn for consulting the I Ching. You can leave the stems standing for catching the snow in deep winter.