Sweet Woodruff
galium odoratum
Also known as: ["Asperula odorata","Woodruff"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with fragrant leaves, often used in potpourri and traditional beverages.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Galium |
| Botanical Name: | Galium odoratum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shady garden beds or woodland settings, also suitable for containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; retains moisture but does not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control spread.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden beds or under trees.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide dappled light; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more during active growth; reduce in dormancy.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is rich and loamy; maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–70°F (15–21°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions.
Keep in cool, shaded areas; protect from frost; avoid extreme heat exposure.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burning; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and shaded.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F or 18–21°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, peat-based mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back straggly stems and remove yellowed or dead leaves; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently; avoid placing in hot, direct sunlight.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGalium odoratum is not considered toxic to cats. It is safe for feline exposure and is not known to cause adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicGalium odoratum is not considered toxic to dogs. It is commonly used in landscaping and is generally safe for canine exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicGalium odoratum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its diuretic properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sweet Woodruff safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: Can Sweet Woodruff be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial shade and can be grown indoors with adequate light.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Sweet Woodruff?
A: It has been used in potpourri, traditional German beverages like Maiwein, and as a flavoring in desserts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
