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Galium odoratum

Galium odoratum

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Sweet woodruffPerennial, DeciduousFamily: Rubiaceae

Height: 30cmSpread: 1m
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife
Scented flowers

Flower colour:

White

Foliage colour:

Green

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecSowyesyesyesyesyesFlowersyesyesyes**yesDivideyesyesyesyesyesCollect Seedsyes**yes

Galium ‘Odoratum’ and wildlife

Galium ‘Odoratum’ 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 ‘Odoratum’ poisonous?

Galium ‘Odoratum’ 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