The leaves are lanceolate and divided multiple times into narrow segments, appearing fern-like. The leaves of yarrow are strongly scented. The root system consists of extensive rhizomes with fibrous roots. Yarrow forms white flower heads in flat clusters. Flowering occurs from May throughout the summer.
Germination occurs in mid-spring.
Reproduction is by seeds and spreading rhizomes. In turf, dense patches develop due to the spreading rhizomes. Yarrow is found throughout the United States, except in the Southwest. Mowing alone will not remove yarrow, as it adapts to different mowing heights, although it becomes less competitive under lower mowing heights. Yarrow usually grows best in poor, dry, sandy soils.