A rapid growing, white flowering plant for the shaded areas of the garden. The dried foliage has the scent of new mown hay.
Plant Type
All Plants, Perennials Hardy
Hardiness Zone
4-8
Sunlight
prefers shade to partial shade
Moisture
average to moist
Soil & Site
best in moist, slightly acid, humus rich well drained soils
Flowers
white, arranged in loose clusters at the top of the flower stalks
Leaves
rough edged, green and arranged in whorls of 6-8 leaves around the square stem
Roots
small red brown creeping roots
Dimensions
Can be a rapid spreading plant reaching 12-18 inches tall.
Maintenance
In the spring cut off the last year’s growth. May need edge plant removal to control the spread.
Propagation
division or cuttings
Misc Facts
The genus name Galium is derived from the Greek word "gala meaning milk. The common family name bedstraw refers the plant being used for stuffing pillows and mattresses. Sweet Woodruff has had many medicinal, aromatic, and culinary uses.
Notes & Reference
#44-The Complete Book of Herbs, #55-The Garden Book of Wisconsin (Melinda Meyers)