Galium pumilum
Galium pumilum · Rubiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant galium pumilum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to August, small white or pink flowers
- Adult size
- 20–40 cm tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to –20 °C
- Origin
- Mountainous regions of Europe (Alps, Pyrenees)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky or neutral, rather dry
Care
Exposure
Choose a location in full sun or partial shade. This small alpine herb tolerates sunny positions well and appreciates good air circulation. It dislikes dense shade, which can compromise its vitality.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during the growing season. Rough bedstraw prefers dry to fresh soil and dreads standing water. Once established, it resists summer drought well.
Soil and terroir
Opt for well-drained, light soil that is rather chalky. Avoid overly rich or damp soils that encourage rot. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage if needed.
Pruning and cutting
Cut back lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Simply removing dead stems in late winter is usually sufficient. This plant does not require heavy intervention.
Fertiliser
No fertiliser is needed on properly prepared soil. Excess nutrition promotes growth at the expense of compactness and can weaken the plant's natural hardiness.
Diseases and pests
Rough bedstraw is robust and rarely affected by diseases or pests under suitable conditions. Simply ensure good drainage to prevent any root rot. No specific treatment is generally required.
Did you know?
Rough bedstraw is an overlooked member of the Rubiaceae family, which also produces the coffee plant and cinchona. Its tiny white or pink flowers, which are scentless, attract small pollinating insects of the mountains. Traditionally, bedstraws have been used in dyeing and folk medicine for their diuretic properties.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.