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Description
Galium Album, also known as white bedstraw or hedge bedstraw, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world. This plant is widely cultivated for its sweet-smelling flowers and medicinal properties. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and 1 meter in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledons |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
Galium Album has a bushy appearance with many stems that grow upward from a central point. The stems are square-shaped and have small hairs on them. They also have whorls of narrow leaves that are about 2-3 cm long. The flowers of Galium Album are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stems. They bloom from late spring to early summer, and they have a sweet, honey-like fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Galium Album is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water
Galium Album prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Galium Album does not require much fertilizer. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient to keep the plant healthy.
Soil
Galium Album prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight
Galium Album prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but it may not flower as well in these conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Galium Album is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galium Album is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If the plant does get powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Galium Album is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, hedgerows, and woodland edges. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Galium Album poisonous?
A: No, Galium Album is not poisonous. In fact, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various ailments.
Q: How can I propagate Galium Album?
A: Galium Album can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seed. Division is the easiest method and should be done in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Galium Album be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Galium Album can be grown in containers. However, it will require more frequent watering and fertilization than plants grown in the ground.
Q: How long does Galium Album live?
A: Galium Album is a perennial plant that can live for several years with proper care.
Related Plants
- Galium odoratum (sweet woodruff)
- Galium verum (yellow bedstraw)
- Galium mollugo (wild madder)
- Galium triflorum (fragrant bedstraw)
References
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension. (n.d.). Galium album. Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/galium-album/
- RHS. (n.d.). Galium album. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9311/Galium-album/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Galium album. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278891&isprofile=0&
