Galium verum

Galium verum is a hugely beneficial wildflower with long sprawling, upright stems of whorled leaves that conclude in terminal panicles of dainty, delightful yellow flowers from June to August. Excellent for wildflower meadows with an abundance of nectar for bumblebees and butterflies, as well as a source of sustenance to the treasured hummingbird hawk moth's caterpillars. Galium verum is a ground covering herbaceous perennial which grows to a height and spread of 50cm. Like many wildflowers it has an abundance of common names which are directly linked to its usage. Lady's Bedstraw stems from its use in medieval times, as a stuffing for mattresses which would release its delicate, honey scent when lain upon or crushed. It was also thought to repel fleas and have a mildly sedative impact. This intriguing plant is also referred to as rennet weed as it contains an enzyme which curdles milk - an essential part of the process of making cheese. Galium verum likes to be planted in poor soil and is happiest in a site which enjoys full sun or part shade. Requires little or no maintenance other than cutting back the faded flower heads in autumn. Plants will naturalise in the right conditions.