Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a charming woodland plant that creates a living carpet of green beneath trees and shrubs. The plant features delicate whorls of bright green leaves, arranged in stars around square stems, typically reaching heights of 6-8 inches. In late spring, clusters of tiny, pure white flowers appear above the foliage, creating a constellation-like effect that can transform a shaded area into a enchanting display. The most distinctive feature of Sweet Woodruff is its hay-like fragrance, which intensifies as the leaves dry, making it a popular choice for potpourri and scented sachets.

Originally native to Europe, Sweet Woodruff has a rich history dating back to medieval times, where it earned the nickname "Master of the Woods" (Waldmeister in German). The plant was traditionally used to flavor May Wine (Maiwein), a celebratory spring beverage in Germany, and was strewn across church floors during festivals due to its sweet scent and insect-repelling properties. In the Middle Ages, it was also used as a strewing herb in homes and was believed to bring good luck and ward off evil.

As a shade-tolerant perennial, Sweet Woodruff thrives in partial to full shade conditions, making it ideal for woodland gardens or areas beneath trees where other plants struggle. It performs best in climates with cool, moist summers and prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. The plant begins its growth cycle in early spring, flowers in May and June, and maintains its attractive foliage through the growing season. While it can tolerate brief periods of drought once established, consistent moisture is key to maintaining its lush appearance.

Gardeners should be aware that while Sweet Woodruff is a wonderful ground cover, its spreading nature through both underground rhizomes and self-seeding can make it potentially aggressive in ideal conditions. However, unlike more problematic spreaders, it's relatively easy to control by creating barriers or simply pulling up unwanted growth. The plant may go dormant or look ragged during hot, dry summers, but it typically rebounds when cooler temperatures return. Additionally, while the plant is generally considered safe, people with blood-clotting disorders should avoid consuming it as it contains coumarin, a natural blood-thinning compound.

For maintenance, Sweet Woodruff requires minimal care once established. A yearly spring cleanup to remove any winter-damaged foliage and a layer of compost is typically sufficient. The plant rarely suffers from serious pest or disease problems, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for shade gardens. When harvesting for potpourri or other uses, it's best to collect the leaves just as the flowers begin to bloom, when the coumarin content is highest and the fragrance is most intense.