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Wall Bedstraw

Galium parisiense

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Gentianales
Family:
Rubiaceae (Bedstraw)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Annual
Maximum Size:
30 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Walls.

Flower:
֍
White, 4 petals
 
The minute flowers are pale green or whitish on the inside and purple tinted on the outside. The flowers measure only 1mm in diameter.
Fruit:
A smooth, almost black nutlet. The surface of the fruit is covered in many slender hooked bristles.
Leaves:
An annual sprawling flower with minute curved prickles on its many-branched stems. The leaves appear in whorls of 5 to 7 up the stem. Leaves are down-turned with minute forward pointing prickles along the edges.
Other Names:
Annual Bedstraw, Paris Bedstraw.
Frequency (UK):
Unusual  

Other Information

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:

  1. Ornamental Use: The delicate, white flowers of Wall Bedstraw are attractive, and it makes a great addition to any garden.

  2. 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.

  3. Forage for Wildlife: Wall Bedstraw is a great source of food for many species of wildlife, including rabbits, deer, and birds.

  4. 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.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

Click to open an Interactive Map