Contents
Description
Galium Bermudense, commonly known as Bermuda bedstraw, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Bermuda but can be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Africa, and Asia. This plant is a low-growing groundcover, with stems that can reach up to 60 cm in length. It has small, white flowers that bloom from June to August and a pleasant fragrance that attracts bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
Galium Bermudense has a creeping habit, with stems that root at the nodes. Its leaves are lance-shaped and grow in whorls of four around the stem. They are dark green and can reach up to 3 cm in length. The flowers are small and white, with four petals and a yellow center. They grow in clusters at the end of the stem and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Water: Galium Bermudense prefers moist soil, so it’s essential to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Galium Bermudense prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galium Bermudense is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
Galium Bermudense is native to Bermuda but can be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Africa, and Asia. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and disturbed areas. This plant is an excellent choice for groundcover in areas with poor soil quality.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Galium Bermudense a good choice for a low-maintenance groundcover?
A: Yes, Galium Bermudense is an excellent choice for low-maintenance groundcover. It requires minimal care and can grow in a wide range of habitats.
Q: Can Galium Bermudense be grown in full sun?
A: Yes, Galium Bermudense can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. However, it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should Galium Bermudense be fertilized?
A: Galium Bermudense should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Galium Bermudense?
A: Galium Bermudense is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Galium aparine
- Galium odoratum
- Galium verum
- Galium tinctorium
References
- “Galium Bermudense.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277339&isprofile=0&.
- “Galium Bermudense.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/galiumbermud.htm.
- “Bermuda Bedstraw.” Plant Care Today, 23 Apr. 2019, plantcaretoday.com/bermuda-bedstraw-galium-bermudense.html.
