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About this product
Woodruff (Galium odoratum) – 9cm Pot
Plant Highlights: Fragrant foliage when dried • Delicate white spring flowers • Low-growing spreading habit • Excellent ground cover for shade • Ideal for woodland gardens
Overview
Woodruff (Galium odoratum), commonly known as Sweet Woodruff, is a charming herbaceous perennial that forms a dense carpet of fresh green foliage in shaded areas of the garden. In late spring and early summer, clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers rise above the leaves, brightening woodland borders and shaded planting schemes.
The foliage develops its characteristic sweet fragrance when cut or dried, giving this traditional herb a long history of use in potpourri and scented arrangements. In the garden, it is valued for its ability to soften the edges of paths and fill shaded spaces beneath trees and shrubs.
Plant Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Galium odoratum |
| Common Name | Sweet Woodruff |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous perennial herb |
| Foliage | Bright green, deciduous |
| Flower Colour | White |
| Flowering Season | Late spring to early summer |
| Position | Partial shade to full shade |
| Soil | Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil |
| Habit | Low-growing, spreading |
| Mature Height | 15–30 cm |
| Mature Spread | 30–50 cm |
| Hardiness | RHS H7 (below −20°C). |
Growing Guide
Plant in partial shade or full shade in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Sweet Woodruff performs particularly well beneath deciduous trees and shrubs, where it gradually forms an attractive ground cover.
Water regularly while establishing and during prolonged dry periods. Established clumps can be divided in spring or autumn if required to extend planting or manage their spread.
Why We Love It
Sweet Woodruff is an excellent choice for bringing life to difficult shaded areas. Its neat whorled foliage, delicate white flowers and gently spreading habit create a natural woodland look while helping to suppress weeds.
Wildlife
The flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinating insects during late spring and early summer.
Product Information
- Supplied in a 9cm pot
- Herbaceous perennial herb
- Best grown in partial shade or full shade
- Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders and ground cover
- Produces delicate white flowers in late spring to early summer above attractive aromatic foliage
Growing & care
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