Galium odoratum
Overview
Uses: Shaded groundcover, woodland gardens, underplanting beneath trees and shrubs, naturalized areas, and erosion control in low-light spaces.
Benefits: A fast-spreading, mat-forming perennial with delicate white spring flowers and fragrant foliage that creates a soft carpet in shaded gardens.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
Sun: Partial Sun/Shade to Heavy Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Groundcover, Spreading — low mats that root as they spread.
Bloom Color: White
Mature Height: 6–12"
Mature Width: 9–18"
Bloom Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
Sweet Woodruff forms a soft, fragrant carpet in shaded gardens where many other plants struggle to thrive.
In late spring, clusters of small white star-shaped flowers rise just above the foliage, creating a light, airy effect beneath trees and along shaded borders. The finely textured leaves release a fresh hay-like fragrance when crushed or dried, adding another sensory layer to woodland plantings. Its ability to spread steadily by creeping roots makes it especially useful as a living groundcover in moist, shaded spaces.
Care
Sweet Woodruff Care
Plant in partial to full shade for best performance. While it can tolerate some morning sun, prolonged exposure to hot afternoon sun may cause stress or premature dormancy.
Prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Water regularly during establishment and during extended dry periods to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilizer is rarely necessary in fertile soils, but in lean conditions you may apply a balanced slow release fertilizer in early spring.
Plants spread naturally by creeping roots and can be divided in spring or fall to manage size or expand plantings.
Container Growing: Sweet Woodruff may be grown in shaded containers with good drainage. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering than in-ground plantings. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Sweet Woodruff for Sale Online?
Plants are shipped in a greenhouse-grade grower’s container and are well-rooted and healthy at the time of shipment. Growth stage will vary seasonally. If you need specific sizing details before ordering, please contact us.
How Large Does Sweet Woodruff Grow?
Mature plants typically reach 6–12 inches tall and spread 9–18 inches wide, forming a low, dense groundcover over time.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
- Sweet Woodruff
- Sweetscented Bedstraw
- Mugwort Bedstraw
Is Sweet Woodruff a good groundcover for shade?
Yes. Its spreading, mat-forming growth makes it well suited for shaded areas beneath trees and along woodland edges. You can explore more options in our Groundcovers collection.
Will Sweet Woodruff spread aggressively?
It spreads steadily through creeping roots and can naturalize in favorable conditions. In small garden beds, occasional division may help keep it contained.
Where does Sweet Woodruff perform best in the landscape?
It performs best in moist, shaded environments such as woodland gardens and beneath deciduous trees. For additional shade-loving selections, browse our Perennials collection and our Native Plants of North America collection.
