Galium odoratum
sweet woodruff
A vigorous rhizomatous perennial forming a wide mat of erect stems to 30cm, bearing whorls of bright green, lance-shaped leaves, hay-scented when dry, with terminal clusters of small white, starry flowers from late spring
Synonyms
Asperula odorata
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Galium can be annuals or perennials, with weak, sometimes scrambling stems bearing whorls of narrow leaves and usually terminal panicles of small, white or yellow flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eurasia, N Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in sun or dappled shade, strong sun may scorch the leaves; spreads enthusiastically with the potential to become a nuisance
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division of rhizomes in autumn or early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
- Ground cover
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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