Smooth Bedstraw

cruciata glabra

Also known as: ["Smooth Bedstraw","Rue-leaved Bedstraw"]

Family: Rubiaceae Genus: Cruciata Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A low-growing perennial herbaceous plant with creeping stems and small, smooth leaves arranged in whorls of four.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae
Genus: Cruciata
Botanical Name: Cruciata glabra

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open meadows with good drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • 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; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; check drainage before planting.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain consistent warmth in winter; protect from frost.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

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

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; 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

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.

Solution: Protect from drafts; move to a warmer location; use a heating mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cruciata glabra may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cruciata glabra can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death.

Leaf spots on Cruciata glabra may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Cruciata glabra is often caused by excessive moisture, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cruciata glabra is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cruciata glabra is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cruciata glabra is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cruciata glabra toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How does Cruciata glabra grow?

A: It spreads via creeping stems and thrives in partial shade.

Q: What are the uses of Cruciata glabra?

A: It is primarily valued for its ground-covering properties and wildlife attraction.

Quick Reference
Family: Rubiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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