An erect herbaceous perennial plant that produces one to several stems 0.5-3 ft in height, and has a spreading rhizomatous growth form. Leaves are evenly distributed along the stem, with the leaves near the middle and bottom of the stem being the largest. The leaves have varying degrees of hairiness (pubescence). The leaves are 2-8 in. long, bipinnate or tripinnate, almost feathery, and arranged spirally on the stems. The leaves are cauline, and more or less clasping.

The inflorescence has 4 to 9 phyllaries and contains ray and disk flowers which are white to pink. The generally 3 to 8 ray flowers are ovate to round. Disk flowers range from 15 to 40. The inflorescence is produced in a flat-topped capitulum cluster. The fruits are small achenes.

Characteristics: The plant has a strong, sweet scent, similar to chrysanthemums.

Cultural Significance: Chippewa used the leaves in a steam inhalant for headaches. They also chewed the roots and applied the saliva to their appendages as a stimulant. The Cherokee drank a tea of common yarrow to reduce fever and aid in restful sleep.

Santa Catalina Mountains
Catalina Highway
Location: Shoulder of highway beside Sunset Trail trailhead.
7/9/15

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