Sweet Woodruff, Sweet-scented Bedstraw
Synonym: Asperula odorata
Family: Rubiaceae
 Asperula odorata, Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 3: 267. Courtesy of Kentucky Native Plant Society. |
Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 1-6, 15-17 USDA: 4-8 Heat Tolerance: Questionable Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade Origin: Eurasia, North Africa Growth Habits: Perennial, 6 to 12 inches tall (15-30 cm), 6 to 18 inches spread (15-45 cm); leaves are in whirls Watering Needs: Regular to abundant, will go dormant in summer if it lacks water Propagation: Fresh seeds, or division. Self-sows and propagates by creeping rhizomes, can be used as ground cover |
The plant contains coumarin that gives it its characteristic smell of freshly mowed grass, that has its full strength only when dried. The dried leaves are popular in potpourris. The leaves are used in some wines and in summer drinks in Europe (May wine is prepared by adding fresh springs of woodruff to Rhine wine). Woodruff is also used in perfumes.
Blooming Habits:
White flowers in small terminal inflorescences, above the foliage, in late spring.
Fruiting Habits:
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