Dyer's Woodruff
Asperula tinctoria

Family: Rubiaceae

What it is like

Asperula tinctoria is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Dry pastures. Meadows and rocky places.

Northern and Central Europe.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 1

A red dye is obtained from the roots.

Dye: Plants that provide dyes.

How it is grown

Succeeds in almost any soil, including dry ones. Prefers a well-drained moisture retentive soil in sun or semi-shade.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring to early summer in a light position in a cold frame. 2 weeks pre-chilling improves the germination rate. The seed usually germinates in 1 month at 10°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or early summer. Basal cuttings of soft young shoots in early summer.

Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Galium triandrum.