Hedge bedstraw - Galium mollugo (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Culture, Images, Control)

Hedge bedstraw

Hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) is a flowering herb native to Europe and North Africa. Hedge bedstraw is also commonly referred to as "false baby's breath". Hedge bedstraw grows at high elevations in hedges, meadows, and paths. It is considered a noxious weed in several eastern United States.

Scientific classification

Species

Hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Weeds

Weed or not

15 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Yellow, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Hedge bedstraw

Distribution of Hedge bedstraw

Distribution Map

Hedge bedstraw is originally native to major regions of Europe and the northern edges of Africa. It has since spread beyond its natural range to both American continents and Oceania. Hedge bedstraw shows a tendency to establish itself in new temperate zones where it is introduced, becoming part of the local flora.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Hedgebanks, open woodland, scrub, grassy slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Weed Control

Hedge bedstraw is a weed that grows in much of North America, primarily the eastern and western United States and Canada. Its preferred habitats include fields, lawns, riverbanks, pastures, and along roadsides and railroad tracks. It is considered an invasive species in the states of New Hampshire, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. The problem with hedge bedstraw is that it competes with field crops, crowding them out for moisture and soil nutrients. It also has a toxin that is poisonous to animals. To control spread, pull the plants from the soil including the underground rhizome system, or mow the plants to reduce seed production.

How to Control It

The best time to remove the hedge bedstraw plant is in the early spring, before the weed has had the chance to flower and produce seeds.

Hand-pulling: First, moisten the soil to soften it. Then, grasp the main stem of the weed close to the ground, and slowly pull up so as to remove the entire root system.
Smothering: Cover the area with the hedge bedstraw plant with a layer of black plastic or thick layers of newspaper. Keep it covered for a season to smother and kill the plant.
Using a hoe: In a dry period, use a hoe to uproot and cut off the hedge bedstraw plants. Leave the plants on the surface to dry and die in the sun.
Natural weed killers: Apply an organic herbicide, or a homemade solution like vinegar or boiling water, directly to the hedge bedstraw. Be careful not to damage desirable plants nearby.
Introducing competition: Plant fast-growing, shade-producing plants in the area to compete with hedge bedstraw for sunlight and nutrients.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Hedge bedstraw

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Hedge bedstraw originates from temperate regions and thrives in moderately moist environments. It prefers consistent soil moisture, needing hydration weekly. As an outdoor plant in meadows and hedgerows, hedge bedstraw adapts to regular rainfall, influencing its growth patterns and seasonal water requirements.

Propagation: Hedge bedstraw is propagated by sowing in Spring and has an average difficulty level. Success is indicated by germination and healthy growth. Adequate moisture and sufficient sunlight are crucial for optimal results.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Hedge bedstraw

Distribution of Hedge bedstraw

Weed Control

Care Guide for Hedge bedstraw

PEOPLE ALSO ASK