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Herbs - CulinaryHerbaceous Perennial

Galium odoratum
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

Other common names
hay plant
kiss-me-quick
see moremugwet
rockweed
sweet grass
woodruff
Synonyms
Asperula odorata
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Chalk
Sand
Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical 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 partial shade, strong sun will scorch the leaves. Can be invasive

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division of rhizomes in autumn or early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease free

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