Description
Galium – Bedstraw –
There are about 400 species of annuals and perennials, in this genus. They are widely distributed in woodland, meadows and wasteland, mainly in temperate regions. Most have whorls of linear leaves held on weak stems that may be scrambling and rough, with recurved bristles, or shorter and smooth. The flowers are small star shaped white, pinkish white or yellow, held singly or in terminal or axillary panicles or cymes, they usually have 4 or 5 corolla lobes, which often recurved. Many Galium species are invasive, but a few are good garden plants, including G. odoratum, which is useful as a groundcover in woodland and is attractive to bees. Alpine species are best grown in a scree bed or alpine house.
G. odoratum – Asperula odorata – Sweet Woodruff – This delicate, rhizomatous perennial from Europe, Northern Africa and Russia grows 12-18″ tall with an indefinite spread. From almost hairless stems it carries whorls of 6-9 lance shaped to elliptic, emerald-green leaves, 1-2″ long, with tiny, prickles. From late spring to mid summer it bears tiny, star shaped, scented white flowers, to 1/4″ across, in umbel like cymes, 3″ across. Leaves may scorch in strong sun. Hay scented when dried.
Grow in almost any, preferably moist but well drained, humus rich soil in sun or partial shade. Divide perennials in early spring or fall.
Zones 5-8
