
Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
Sweet Woodruff
Ground coverGalium odoratum
- Partial sun
- Zones 4–8
- 60 days to maturity
- Flowers
- 8" spacing
- High water
- pH 6–7.5
Overview
A charming woodland perennial that forms dense mats of star-shaped whorled leaves topped with delicate white flowers in late spring. When dried, the leaves release a sweet vanilla-hay fragrance that has been treasured for centuries in potpourri and traditional May wine. This well-behaved spreader is perfect for naturalizing in shade gardens and won't overwhelm neighboring plants like some ground covers.
Planting
Seeds need cold stratification. Sow in fall or stratify in refrigerator for 4-6 weeks. Best established from divisions or transplants.
Growing
Sun: partial. Water: high. Soil pH: 6–7.5. Space plants 8" apart. Germination: 21-42.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Generally pest-free. Common diseases: Root rot in waterlogged soils, powdery mildew in poor air circulation.