Galium odoratum syn. Asperula odorata
Plant Details
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist, Permeable
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acid Neutral Basic
Shadow, Half shade
Usage properties
Leaves, Flowers, Condiment, Tea, Juice
Dye, Repellent, Ground cover
Description
Leaves can be consumed both raw and cooked. They have a scent reminiscent of freshly cut grass due to the presence of coumarin. These leaves are often used as a flavoring in drinks or added to fruit salads. In Alsace, the leaves are soaked in white wine to make 'Maitrank', an aromatic tonic drink. A delightful and fragrant tea can be made from the green-dried leaves and flowers. The slightly withered leaves give the tea a fresh, grassy flavor. The flowers, which also have a pleasant fragrance, can be eaten or used as a garnish.
Harvest Data
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Arbutus unedoxaera Strawberry Tree |
This plant can provide shade and help retain moisture in the soil |
|
Broussonetia kazinoki Kozo |
Broussonetia kazinoki can work as a support plant, allowing Galium to thrive in a diverse ecosystem. |
|
Broussonetia papyrifera Paper Mulberry |
Provides additional cover and helps improve the soil structure beneath. |
|
Cudrania tricuspidata Silkworm Thorn, Storehousebush |
Attracts beneficial insects and maintains soil fertility. |
|
Cydonia oblonga Quince |
Produces fruits that attract pollinators beneficial for the nearby Galium. |
|
Diospyros lotus Date Plum |
Provides shade and can create a microclimate suitable for Galium's growth. |
|
Eriobotrya japonica Loquat |
Contributes to biodiversity and aids in pest management through its natural balance. |
|
Ficus carica Fig |
Acts as a canopy to reduce harsh sunlight impacting Galium. |
|
Morus alba White mulberry |
Provides shelter and supports local wildlife to keep the ecosystem thriving. |
|
Prunus domestica Plum |
Produces fruits that can benefit Galium by enhancing soil nutrients after decomposition. |
|
Prunus persica Peach |
Can provide shade and create a favorable microclimate for Galium's growth. |
|
Quercus robur English oak |
Provides strong shade and promotes a cooler microenvironment for underplanting. |
|
Thymus vulgaris Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme |
Companion plant that can improve soil quality and attract pollinators beneficial to Galium. |
|
Ribes sanguineum Flowering Currant, Blood currant |
Produces flowers that attract beneficial insects for pollination of nearby plants including Galium. |
|
Mentha aquatica Water mint |
Can help improve the moisture retention of the soil where Galium is planted. |