Northern Bedstraw

Galium boreale is a native perennial, sending a profusion of tiny white flowers June through September across partly shaded to sunny woodland edges, fields and prairies.

There are several plants growing in our woodlands that have tiny, white flowers. In addition, there are several species of bedstraw as well, so look first to the leaves when identifying this dainty flower, for this is a useful way to distinguish northern bedstraw from other bedstraws (such as rough bedstraw). Plant height is up to 3 feet. The leaves come out from the stem in whorled groups of 4. The flowers are so dainty, they require a close-up look! Growing abundantly on the tops of the stems in branching clusters, each flower is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide, with 4 petals and 4 creamy tipped stamens. As long as you’re there already, breathe in and enjoy their quite fragrant scent. This delicately pleasant addition to mattress stuffing from olden days is how bedstraw got its name.

Further traditional use includes crushing the young leaves and applying them to skin for on areas of sunburn or insect bites for pain relief.