Fragrant Bedstraw
Galium triflorum
Family: Rubiaceae
What it is like
Galium triflorum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Moist woods near sea level, to moderate elevations in the mountains in Western N. America.
Circumboreal.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves - raw or cooked. A tea is made from the flowering stems.
Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.
Medicine
Rating: 2
An infusion of the plant has been used in the treatment of gallstones and kidney complaints. A poultice of the whole plant has been used to treat backaches in babies. Both Asperuloside (a terpenoid) and Coumarin (a benzopyrone) occur in some species of Galium. Asperuloside can be converted into prostaglandins (hormone-like compounds that stimulate the uterus and affect blood vessels), making the genus of great interest to the pharmaceutical industry.
Kidney: Used in the treatment of kidney diseases
Lithontripic: Removes stones from the kidney, bladder etc.
Other
Rating: 2
A red dye is obtained from the root. The plant is aromatic. It has been crushed and used as a perfume, particularly by women. The aroma is given off as the plant dries. A poultice of the whole plant has been rubbed on the scalp to encourage hair growth. The plant is used as a stuffing material for mattresses etc.
Cosmetic: Used to improve the physical appearence of a person.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
Hair: Plants used as hair shampoos, tonics, to treat balding etc.
Stuffing: Used in making soft toys, mattresses, pillows etc.
How it is grown
Prefers a loose moist leafy soil in some shade. Tolerates dry soils but the leaves quickly become scorched when growing in full sun. This species does not thrive in a hot climate.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown in situ as soon as it is ripe in late summer. The seed can also be sown in situ in the spring though it may be very slow to germinate. Division in spring. The plant can be successfully divided throughout the growing season if the divisions are kept moist until they are established. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Dry, moist