Contents
Description
Galium Echinocarpum is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is also known as Rough-fruited Bedstraw or Galium Fimbriatum. The plant is native to the western part of North America and is commonly found in the mountainous regions of California and Oregon. Galium Echinocarpum grows up to a height of 2-3 feet and spreads up to 2 feet. The stems are erect, square, and hairy. The leaves are arranged in whorls of 4-6 and are lance-shaped with a rough texture. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in clusters at the top of the stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
Galium Echinocarpum has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The stems are hairy and have a square shape. The leaves are lance-shaped, rough, and arranged in whorls of 4-6. They are about 1-3 inches long and 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide. The flowers are small and white, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The fruit is rough and covered in prickles, giving the plant its common name, Rough-fruited Bedstraw.
Care Guide
Galium Echinocarpum is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Galium Echinocarpum does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can grow in poor soil, but will do better in fertile soil.- Sunlight: Galium Echinocarpum prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it will benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galium Echinocarpum is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, some pests that may affect this plant include spider mites and aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases that may affect this plant include root rot and powdery mildew. These can be prevented by providing good drainage and good air circulation.
Habitat
Galium Echinocarpum is native to the mountainous regions of California and Oregon. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including open woods, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Galium Echinocarpum a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Galium Echinocarpum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for.
Q: How often should I water Galium Echinocarpum?
A: Water only when the soil is dry to the touch. This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Galium Echinocarpum?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: Can Galium Echinocarpum grow in poor soil?
A: Yes, Galium Echinocarpum can grow in poor soil, but will do better in fertile soil.
Related Plants
– Galium aparine (Cleavers)- Galium odoratum (Sweet Woodruff)- Galium verum (Lady’s Bedstraw)- Galium triflorum (Fragrant Bedstraw)
References
– “Galium Echinocarpum.” Natural Resources Conservation Service. United States Department of Agriculture. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=GAEC4- “Rubiaceae Galium Echinocarpum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c728- “Galium Echinocarpum.” Las Pilitas Nursery. http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/879–galium-echinocarpum
