Cleavers
galium aparine
Also known as: ["Goosegrass","Velvet Grass","Clinging Ivy","Stickyweed"]
Overview
A climbing annual herbaceous plant with weak, sticky stems and whorled leaves, known for its ability to cling to clothing and fur.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Galium |
| Botanical Name: | Galium aparine |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or naturalized area where spread can be managed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, as it is adapted to moderate humidity
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; adaptable to various soil types.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless controlling aggressive spread.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight); tolerates dappled light in warmer climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; provide shade during peak afternoon heat in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; protect from harsh afternoon rays; adjust shade as seasons change.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moderately fertile, well-draining soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); adaptable but thrives in cooler conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if at all, as it is not a heavy feeder
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist 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 or perlite and peat moss mixture.
Hormone
Optional but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip back stems to desired length; remove any dead or diseased parts.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to control spread and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tool.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; prune selectively; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold or frost.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch around the base to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may become stunted in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGalium aparine is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested, though excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the plant's texture.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGalium aparine is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines, though large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to mechanical irritation from the plant's sticky hairs.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGalium aparine, commonly known as cleavers or goosegrass, is generally considered non-toxic, but its seeds contain small amounts of saponins that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested in large quantities. The plant is often used in traditional medicine for its diuretic properties, though excessive consumption may lead to mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Galium aparine toxic to pets?
A: No, Galium aparine is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Cleavers cling to surfaces?
A: The plant has tiny hooked hairs on its stems and leaves that allow it to adhere to clothing, fur, and other surfaces.
Q: Can Galium aparine be used medicinally?
A: Yes, historically, Cleavers has been used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and lymphatic cleanser.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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