Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full shade, partial shade
Aspect:
East facing, north facing, west facing
Position in border:
Front
Shade type:
Dry

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Sweet woodruff, Galium odoratum, is a hardy perennial species with a wide native range, including the UK. It's a woodland plant that is often grown for ground cover in shady areas, including under trees and shrubs.

From mid-spring to July it produces clusters of dainty white flowers that are held above whorled leaves. All parts of the plant are sweetly scented, and in Germany it's used to make a sweet wine called Maitrank. As it wilts and dries the scent intensifies, lending to its use in potpourri.

For best results grow Galium odoratum in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Drought-tolerant once established.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sowyesyesyesyesyes
Flowersyesyesyesyes
Divideyesyesyesyesyes
Collect seedsyesyes

Galium and wildlife

Galium is known for attracting bees and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/​Moths
Butterflies/​Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators

Is Galium poisonous?

Galium has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
Plants that go well with Galium odoratum
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