GALIUM ODORATUM / SWEET WOODRUFF

GALIUM ODORATUM / SWEET WOODRUFF

A Fragrant Groundcover for Shade

Galium odoratum, commonly known as Sweet Woodruff, is a fragrant, low-growing perennial that thrives in shaded or woodland areas. It is well-loved for its bright green foliage, star-shaped white flowers, and pleasant scent that fills the air when crushed. This versatile groundcover adds charm and texture to shady garden beds or beneath trees.

Why Choose Galium Odoratum?

• Fragrant Foliage: The leaves release a sweet, pleasant fragrance when crushed, often compared to freshly mown hay or sweet vanilla.
• Star-Shaped Flowers: In spring, clusters of tiny white flowers appear, adding a delicate and ethereal touch to your garden.
• Ideal Groundcover: With its dense, spreading growth habit, Sweet Woodruff makes an excellent groundcover in shaded or woodland gardens.
• Low Maintenance: This plant is easy to care for and thrives in low-light conditions, making it a perfect choice for difficult, shaded areas.

Key Features:

• Fragrance: One of the standout features of Sweet Woodruff is its aromatic leaves that emit a sweet, pleasant scent, especially when crushed or brushed against.
• Shade-Tolerant: It excels in low-light conditions, making it ideal for shaded or woodland areas where other plants may struggle.
• Groundcover: Its spreading habit and dense growth make it an excellent choice for groundcover, helping to prevent weeds and erosion.
• Spring Blooms: Small, star-shaped white flowers appear in the spring, adding a lovely touch of color to the foliage.

Specifications:

• Plant Size: 6–8 inches tall, spreading 12–18 inches wide.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8.
• Sunlight: Partial shade to full shade.
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil, but adaptable to a range of soil types.

Ideal Uses:

• Shade Gardens: Perfect for planting under trees, shrubs, or in areas that receive little direct sunlight.
• Groundcover: A great choice for covering the soil, helping to suppress weeds and reduce erosion in shaded spots.
• Woodland Gardens: Its natural, woodland look makes it a beautiful addition to forest-style or naturalistic gardens.
• Cut Flowers or Scented Sachets: The fragrant leaves can be used in bouquets or dried to make sachets, adding a sweet, nostalgic aroma to the home.

Galium odoratum (Sweet Woodruff) is a versatile, fragrant, and easy-to-grow groundcover that thrives in shaded garden spaces. With its beautiful foliage, fragrant leaves, and delicate flowers, it provides a soft and soothing atmosphere in any shady area.