Sweet Woodruff

Scientific name

Galium odoratum

Description

The Sweet Woodruff has become a popular ground cover for shady areas, growing only 30 cm tall. This species requires full to partial shade and moist soils for optimal growth. It will spread by self-seeding and producing rhizomes to form dense mats. Its shiny lance-shaped green leaves are whorled around the stem in groups of 6 to 8. This species is visually appealing as it yields small beautiful white flowers, which have four petals and are fragrant. The leaves are also fragrant and smell like freshly mown hay when crushed or dried, making them an excellent addition to potpourris.

Planting conditions

Plant in rich soil, moist soils, partial to full shade.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Max 1.5m
  • Max 2m
  • Max 3m
  • Any
• Moisture level:
  • Moist
• Light conditions:
  • Partial sun
  • Shade
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
  • Clay
• pH:
  • Acidic
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
  • Bareroot
• Eco Zone:
  • 2a
  • 2b
  • 3a
  • 3b
  • 4a
  • 4b
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
  • 7a
  • 7b
  • 8a
• Plant type:
  • Ground Cover
• Height:
  • 30 cm
• Spread:
  • 1 m