Gray Bedstraw (Galium cinereum)

Gray Bedstraw

Galium cinereum

It spreads softly in meadows, a haze of tiny white blooms. Low-growing herbaceous perennial; common name: Gray Bedstraw.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, nutrient-poor growing conditions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands moderate summer heat without stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear gray-green leaves arranged in whorls of 4–6 along slender stems
  • Flower: Tiny, star-shaped white blooms in loose terminal clusters
  • Stem: Sprawling, slightly hairy stems that form dense mats over soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Light, diluted balanced organic feed once at the start of growth. Skip fertilization in nutrient-rich soils to prevent excessive foliage growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshells around the base of plants; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent burn
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower stems after blooming to maintain a tidy mat form
  • Remove dead or yellowed foliage in early spring to promote new growth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce competition
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens; wildflower meadow component; low border filler