Three-horned Bedstraw
galium tricornutum
Also known as: ["Three-horned Galium","Darnel Bedstraw"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant in the Rubiaceae family, characterized by its slender stems and small, linear leaves arranged in whorls.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Galium |
| Botanical Name: | Galium tricornutum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens or borders in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered sunlight or dappled shade, especially in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but is sensitive to frost.
Keep away from cold drafts; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist soil or place in water.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with a touch of rooting hormone.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity around cuttings; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Young plants may need repotting more frequently.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; 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 moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stressed 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 growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGalium tricornutum is not toxic to cats. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse physiological effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGalium tricornutum is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse physiological effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGalium tricornutum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Galium tricornutum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Galium tricornutum grow?
A: It is an annual plant that spreads via seeds and thrives in disturbed soils.
Q: Does Galium tricornutum have any medicinal uses?
A: No significant medicinal uses are documented for this species.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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