About
Galium odoratum, sweet woodruff, is a vigorous, rhizomatous perennial forming wide mats of erect stems to 30 cm bearing whorls of vivid-green, lance-shaped leaves � hay-scented when dry � with terminal clusters of small, white, starry flowers from late spring. An excellent and ornamental ground-cover for a moist, shaded woodland garden.
About the genus
Galium, the bedstraws, are annuals or perennials with weak, sometimes scrambling stems bearing whorls of narrow leaves and usually terminal panicles of small, white or yellow, four-petalled flowers. Several species are important wildflowers and traditional herbs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurasia, N Africa
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow 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
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or division of rhizomes in autumn or early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free