40 Perennial Plants to Create Your Perfect Summer Garden

3. Yarrow

Yarrow isn't just a pretty face—it's steeped in history and culture. Its scientific name, Achillea millefolium, pays homage to its legendary role in healing Achilles' wounds during the Trojan War. In China, dried Yarrow stalks have long been used for I Ching divination, adding a touch of mystique to its story.

This resilient perennial boasts bushy, attractive foliage, but handles with care—some may experience photodermatitis upon contact. Yarrow's finely toothed leaves, earning it the moniker "millefolium" or thousand leaves, give way to blooms in enchanting shades of white, yellow, and even crimson, adding a vibrant splash to any garden.