Flowering Months:
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Family:
Rubiaceae (Bedstraw)
Also in this family:
Caucasian Crosswort, Common Cleavers, Common Madder, Corn Cleavers, Crosswort, False Cleavers, Fen Bedstraw, Field Madder, Great Marsh Bedstraw, Heath Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw, Lady's Bedstraw, Limestone Bedstraw, Marsh Bedstraw, Northern Bedstraw, Pink Woodruff, Slender Bedstraw, Slender Marsh Bedstraw, Squinancywort, Sweet Woodruff, Upright Hedge Bedstraw, Wild Madder
Maximum Size:
30 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Rocky places, walls.
Wall Bedstraw produces tiny, greenish-white to pale yellow flowers from June to August. Each flower has four narrow, pointed petals and appears in loose, branched clusters near the top of the plant. Though individually insignificant, the flowers collectively give the plant a fine, airy appearance. Their small size reflects the plant’s adaptation to dry, often nutrient-poor habitats, such as walls, cliffs, and dry sandy soils.
Fruit:
The fruits of Galium parisiense are small, dry schizocarps, dividing into two one-seeded nutlets. These are covered in hooked hairs, allowing them to cling to animal fur, feathers, or clothing for dispersal. The seed surface is often noticeably bristly under magnification, aiding both adhesion and water collection in arid conditions.
Leaves:
Leaves are very narrow (filiform) and arranged in whorls of 6 to 8 around the wiry, angled stems. They are typically rough to the touch due to minute hairs and are adapted to prevent water loss. The plant's overall appearance is wiry and highly branched, often forming loose tufts or tangled mats. It rarely grows taller than 30 cm, maintaining a low, sprawling habit on walls or rocky ground.
Fragrance:
Wall Bedstraw is not noticeably fragrant. Unlike Galium verum (Lady’s Bedstraw), which has a sweet scent when dried, G. parisiense lacks a significant aroma, either fresh or dried. Its primary appeal lies in its delicate structure and ability to colonize challenging vertical or dry habitats.
Other Names:
Annual Bedstraw, Paris Bedstraw.
Summary
Galium parisiense, also known as Paris bedstraw or annual bedstraw, is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The plant has thin, wiry stems with small, green leaves and clusters of small, white flowers. It is often found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. Galium parisiense has been used in traditional medicine, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
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Wall Bedstraw (Galium parisiense) is a herbaceous perennial plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Europe, but has been widely naturalized in other regions, including North America.
This plant is named after its habit of growing along walls and fences. It has green leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped, and produces small, white or yellowish flowers that grow in clusters. Wall Bedstraw is a versatile plant that can be used in many ways, including:
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Ornamental Use: The delicate, white flowers of Wall Bedstraw are attractive, and it makes a great addition to any garden.
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Medicinal Use: Historically, Wall Bedstraw has been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The plant contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, making it useful for the treatment of digestive and respiratory problems.
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Forage for Wildlife: Wall Bedstraw is a great source of food for many species of wildlife, including rabbits, deer, and birds.
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Soil Stabilization: This plant species is highly effective at preventing soil erosion, and is often used for this purpose along roadsides and other areas prone to erosion.
Overall, Wall Bedstraw is a versatile and attractive plant that has many benefits. Whether you're looking to add some beauty to your garden, or you want to help prevent soil erosion, this plant is definitely worth considering.
Despite its many benefits, Wall Bedstraw can also be considered an invasive species in some regions, as it has the ability to spread quickly and outcompete native vegetation. It is important to consider the potential impact on local ecosystems before planting this species in a new area.
Cultivation of Wall Bedstraw is relatively easy, as it is able to grow in a variety of soils and light conditions. It is also able to tolerate drought, making it a great choice for gardeners in regions with low rainfall. The plant can be propagated by seed or division, and is often used in rock gardens or along the edges of paths and borders.
To ensure the best growth and health of Wall Bedstraw, it is important to provide adequate moisture and to avoid over-fertilization. This plant species is typically low-maintenance, but may benefit from occasional deadheading to encourage continued blooming. In areas with heavy rainfall, it may be necessary to provide some support or stake the plant to prevent it from becoming too leggy or falling over.
If you're interested in adding Wall Bedstraw to your garden, it is important to consider the conditions in your area and to choose a location that is appropriate for this species. For example, if you live in a region with a dry climate, you may want to plant Wall Bedstraw in a location that receives some afternoon shade to help conserve moisture.
In addition to its ornamental and practical benefits, Wall Bedstraw is also a great choice for gardeners who are looking for a low-maintenance plant that can provide food and habitat for wildlife. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, this species is a great addition to any garden.
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