“Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) - Before it blooms, this wild flower is sometimes mistaken for a fern because of its much divided leaves. The composite flowering heads are small and numerous with both ray and disk flowers. The scientific name Achillea is after Achilles who is supposed to have made an ointment from a relative of Yarrow to heal his wounded warriors after the siege of Troy. The Indians pulverized the plant and applied it to cuts, bruises and wounds. High in the canyons above 9,000 feet this plant may be only 6 to 8 inches tall; but in the valleys, it may reach 2 feet.” {From: "Plants of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks" by Richard J. Shaw pg 68.} |