Fragrant Bedstraw

Galium triflorum

Physical Characteristics

Galium triflorum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Circumboreal.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Leaves - raw or cooked[62, 172]. A tea is made from the flowering stems[172].

Medicinal Uses

Kidney Lithontripic An infusion of the plant has been used in the treatment of gallstones and kidney complaints[257]. A poultice of the whole plant has been used to treat backaches in babies[257]. Both Asperuloside (a terpenoid) and Coumarin (a benzopyrone) occur in some species of Galium. Asperuloside can be converted into prostaglandins (hormone-like compounds that stimulate the uterus and affect blood vessels), making the genus of great interest to the pharmaceutical industry[238].

Known Hazards

None known