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Description
Galium Angustifolium, commonly known as Narrowleaf Bedstraw, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada. The plant has a sprawling habit and grows up to 3 feet tall. It produces small, white, four-petaled flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
Galium Angustifolium has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in whorls of 4-6. The leaves are 1-3 inches long and have smooth margins. The stem of the plant is square and has small, hooked hairs that allow it to cling to other plants for support. The flowers are small, white, and have four petals that are less than 1/8 inch long. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, and hard nutlet that contains one seed.
Care Guide
Galium Angustifolium prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers moist, fertile soil. The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Galium Angustifolium is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galium Angustifolium is generally free from 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. In addition, the plant can be prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Galium Angustifolium is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant is often found growing in association with other plants, such as conifers, sagebrush, and grasses.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Galium Angustifolium an invasive species?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Galium Angustifolium be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches and digestive issues.
Q: Can Galium Angustifolium be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Q: Does Galium Angustifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s small, white flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Galium Aparine
- Galium Boreale
- Galium Odoratum
- Galium Triflorum
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Galium angustifolium Nutt. Retrieved August 25, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=GAAN
- Oregon State University. (2021). Narrowleaf Bedstraw. Retrieved August 25, 2021, from https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/plants/galium-angustifolium
- Washington Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Galium angustifolium. Retrieved August 25, 2021, from https://www.wnps.org/plants/galium-angustifolium
