Contents
Description
Galium Propinquum, commonly known as white bedstraw, is a flowering plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Europe and North Africa and has been introduced to North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant grows up to 80cm tall and has a sprawling habit. It has narrow leaves arranged in whorls of six to nine around the stem and produces clusters of small, white flowers from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
White bedstraw is a sprawling plant with narrow leaves arranged in whorls of six to nine around the stem. The leaves are up to 3cm long and have pointed tips. The stems are square and have small, white hairs. The plant produces clusters of small, white flowers from June to August. The flowers are about 2mm in diameter and have four petals. The fruit is a small, round, greenish-brown capsule containing two seeds.
Care Guide
White bedstraw is a hardy plant that requires little care. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during hot, dry periods. White bedstraw does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
White bedstraw is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest white bedstraw, but they are usually not a significant problem. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
White bedstraw is native to Europe and North Africa and has been introduced to North America, where it is considered an invasive species. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, pastures, hedgerows, and woodland edges. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is white bedstraw toxic to humans?
A: No, white bedstraw is not toxic to humans.
Q: Can white bedstraw be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, white bedstraw has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including urinary tract infections and skin disorders.
Q: How can I control the spread of white bedstraw in my garden?
A: White bedstraw can be controlled by pulling up the plants by hand or using a hoe. Be sure to remove all plant material, including the roots, to prevent regrowth.
Q: Can white bedstraw be grown in containers?
A: Yes, white bedstraw can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is placed in full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Galium aparine (cleavers)
- Galium odoratum (sweet woodruff)
- Galium verum (lady’s bedstraw)
- Galium triflorum (fragrant bedstraw)
References
- PFAF Plant Database: Galium Propinquum. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Galium+propinquum
- USDA Plants Database: Galium Propinquum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GAPR2
- Invasive Species Compendium: Galium Propinquum. Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/24717
- Flora of North America: Galium Propinquum. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250060321
