Sweetscented Bedstraw

(Galium odoratum)

Sweetscented Bedstraw (Galium odoratum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Galium odoratum, commonly known as Sweetscented Bedstraw, is a perennial herb that is deciduous or semi-deciduous depending on the climate. It is native to the understory of deciduous forests in Europe and Asia, where it thrives in the dappled light and rich, moist soil. The plant typically sprawls to 30–50 cm (12–20 in) in length, with stems that either lie flat on the ground or scramble over other vegetation. Galium odoratum is recognized for its whorls of bright green leaves and small, white, star-shaped flowers that bloom in the late spring to early summer. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they exude a sweet fragrance due to the presence of coumarin, which also makes the foliage pleasantly aromatic, especially when dried.

The plant is valued for its sweet-smelling foliage and is often used in shaded garden settings as a ground cover or border accent, particularly in acidic soils where other shade-loving plants might struggle. It is also appreciated for its use as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages. Sweetscented Bedstraw requires partial to full shade and consistently moist, well-drained soils to flourish. It can be propagated through crown division, separation of rooted stems, or by transplanting the perimeter stolons. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it requires additional watering during dry periods. Gardeners should be aware that Galium odoratum can become invasive outside its native range, so it is important to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.8-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Understory of deciduous forests in Europe and Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Sweet Woodruff, Skovmærke, Echter Waldmeister, Waldmeister, Wohlriechendes Labkraut, Tuoksumatara, Asperula Odorata, Myske, Lievevrouwebedstro, Myskmadra, 선갈퀴

Scientific Names: , Galium odoratum, Asperula odorata, Asperula eugeniae, Chlorostemma odoratum, Asperula odora, Asterophyllum asperula, Asperula matrisylva, Asperula matrisylva oppr, Asterophyllum sylvaticum

GBIF Accepted Name: Galium odoratum (L.) Scop.