Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including large areas of North America, Europe, and Asia, this herbaceous perennial (3-4 feet tall) spreads by both rhizomes and seeds and is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and open forests, often colonizi2ng disturbed soils and roadsides due to its tolerance of poor soil and drought. Introduced populations are considered invasive in parts of New Zealand and Australia. Its flat-topped inflorescences are composed of numerous tiny disc and ray florets, usually white but sometimes pink or pale lavender, with five rounded petals forming a compact cluster that can measure up to 5 inches across. Fragrance is notable and most evident when the stems are bruised, emitting a strong, somewhat medicinal scent. Edible when young, the leaves have a bitter herbaceous taste. Dried flowers and aerial parts are commercially harvested in Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary, and parts of China for use in teas, tinctures, and essential oil extraction. Documented traditional medicinal uses include application as a wound-healing agent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and mild analgesic, with studies supporting some activity against muscle spasms, fever, and topical skin conditions; one compound, achillicin, has demonstrated antimicrobial properties in vitro. The dried form is commonly used in herbalism for digestive disorders and to stimulate bile flow. Cultivars include ‘Paprika’, ‘Cerise Queen’, and ‘Moonshine’, each selected for distinct inflorescence colors and growth habits, with ‘Moonshine’ having received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. It has also found limited use in biodynamic agriculture and permaculture as a companion plant for its reputed ability to enhance the health of nearby species. Photographed in Colombia.