About
An annual producing weak, sprawling stems to 1m or more with whorls of small, narrow leaves. Leaves, stems and seeds are covered in stiff, hooked hairs. Tiny, white flowers are followed by small, spherical, green fruit sometimes flushed purple.
About the 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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitTrailing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrows naturally in open and cultivated ground, hedgerows and scrub. Can become a nuisance by scrambling and sprawlng over other plants but is easily removed. Tolerate this native annual in less tidy areas as its sticky stems are fun for children and it is a valuable food plant for many moth and butterfly caterpillars. See cleavers for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed which spreads readily
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free