Woodruff

Galium odoratum, commonly known as Sweet Woodruff, is an excellent, low-growing (10-20cm) perennial groundcover for shaded UK gardens. From April to June, it produces masses of tiny, star-shaped, pure white flowers in frothy clusters above whorls of bright green, fragrant leaves. The foliage is aromatic when crushed or dried, reminiscent of new-mown hay or vanilla. It thrives in cool, moist, humus-rich soil and prefers partial to full shade, rapidly spreading to form a dense carpet. Fully hardy (RHS H6), it effectively suppresses weeds and creates a serene, verdant underplanting beneath trees and shrubs. Ideal for naturalistic woodland settings.

Sun: Full shade.

Soil: Cool, moist, humus-rich.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May, Jun.