Shrubby Cinquefoil (Potentilla) vs Yarrow - TreeTime.ca

Shrubby Cinquefoil (Potentilla) vs Yarrow

Dasiphora fruticosa syn. Potentilla fruticosa

Achillea borealis (Previously Achillea millefolium)

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(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Shrubby Cinquefoil (Potentilla)
Yarrow

Shrubby Cinquefoil is a small, deciduous flowering shrub. This hardy species is densely covered with leaves and produces pale to bright yellow buttercup-shaped flowers terminally on the stems.

Flowering typically occurs from early to late summer. Shrubby Cinquefoil is a popular ornamental shrub choice and is capable of growing on a variety of sites.

Yarrow is a herbaceous, native wildflower that is found across Canada. It features large, flat clusters of tiny white flowers. The blooms attract a variety of pollinators, making it an ideal choice for pollinator gardens. While partial shade is tolerated, the best flowering occurs in full sun. Yarrow is resistant to deer and rabbits, making it both a beautiful and practical addition to your landscape.

The entire plant is edible, but leaves and flowers are most commonly consumed. They have a strong licorice scent and a mild sweet flavor that is similar to tarragon. Yarrow leaves can also be used as a natural insect repellent.

It is important to plant Yarrow in the right place, it can spread quickly via both rhizomes and self-seeding. Deadheading the spent flowers will extend the bloom season and can help limit self-seeding.

Shrubby Cinquefoil (Potentilla) Quick Facts

Yarrow Quick Facts

Zone: 1a
Zone: 3a
Height: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Height: 0.3 m (1.0 ft)
Spread: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Spread: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Flowers: bright yellow cup-shaped
Flowers: clusters of white flowers
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: short
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none




Toxicity: toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
Other Names: tundra rose
Other Names: common yarrow, devils nettle, milfoil, western yarrow, white yarrow