Sea Bedstraw
galium maritimum
Also known as: ["Beach Bedstraw","Coastal Bedstraw"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb native to coastal regions, characterized by its small, white flowers and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Galium |
| Botanical Name: | Galium maritimum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates coastal conditions with salt spray.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; suitable for coastal gardens.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun lover; coastal tolerant; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy soils; minimal fertilization needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates coastal breezes.
Cool to moderate temps ideal; protect from frost; avoid extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Use weak fertilizer solutions; fertilize during active growth; skip in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like sand and peat or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can help rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; trim selectively to shape.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape lightly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically needed unless grown in containers; repot every 2–3 years if container-grown.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal root disturbance.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; use minimal organic matter to avoid waterlogging.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth in prolonged cold; yellowing in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may become dormant in frost; roots can rot in waterlogged cold soil.
Solution: Provide good drainage; use frost cloth in severe cold; avoid overwatering in winter.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in spring/summer; stop in fall/winter.
Fertilizing Method
Light feeding; use balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly in growing season; avoid in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGalium maritimum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGalium maritimum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGalium maritimum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Galium maritimum suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-adapted to coastal conditions and thrives in sandy soils.
Q: Does Sea Bedstraw attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its small white flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Galium maritimum be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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