Plant Profile: Galium odoratum

This low-maintenance, herbaceous perennial groundcover produces blooms in the spring. It is ideal for use in herb gardens, rock gardens, naturalized areas, and shady borders, serving effectively as both a ground cover and an edging plant. The plant thrives in heavy shade and can even tolerate proximity to black walnut trees. Under optimal conditions, it may exhibit aggressive growth. To manage its growth, the plants can be trimmed using a rotary mower set at a high level.

The lance-shaped, dark green leaves grow in whorls of six to eight around square stems. When crushed, the leaves emit a scent reminiscent of freshly mowed hay, and their aromatic qualities intensify when dried, making them popular for use in potpourri and sachets. This plant is also commercially utilized in the fragrance industry. Its white flowers are not only visually striking and fragrant but also edible, offering a sweet, nutty, vanilla flavor. However, consuming them in large quantities may have a blood-thinning effect.

Play Value: Wildlife Enhancement

Notes: This plant has the potential to become invasive.

In summer, it is covered in hooked bristles.

Seed Type: Capsule