Goosegrass
galium album
Also known as: ["White bedstraw","Goosegrass","Chicory grass"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant in the Rubiaceae family, known for its small white flowers and whorled leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Galium |
| Botanical Name: | Galium album |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a layer of mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGalium album is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of poisoning in felines due to ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGalium album is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines due to ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGalium album, commonly known as white bedstraw, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been historically used in traditional medicine and as a flavoring agent in cheese production without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Galium album toxic to pets?
A: No, Galium album is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Galium album attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Galium album considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive growth habits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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