A close relative of sweet woodruff and a member of the madder family, Lady's Bedstraw, with clusters of airy yellow flowers, forms a light, fluffy ground cover that can be pruned to be kept low or staked. An excellent red dye is made from the fresh or dried roots, yellow from the flowers.
Native to Eurasia and Africa, but has been introduced and has naturalized throughout much of southern Canada and northern U.S.
Used as a mattress stuffing due to its natural flea repellent qualities. Flowers have been used in cheese making.
Yellow Dye - Flowering Stems
Red Dye - Roots
Description
- Scientific Plant Name: Galium verum
- Common Names: Lady's Bedstraw, Cheese Rennet
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Height @ Maturity: 1 - 2.5'
- Packet Weight: ~10g
Growing Tips
- Full sun to partial shade.
- Prefers moist soil.
This plant is listed as a noxious weed in one or more areas of the United States. Please check with your local agricultural extension office before growing under conditions that could lead to dissemination.
NOTE: Certain U.S. states do not permit the growing of some of these seeds, viewing them as "invasive." Please adhere to the regulations in your area.