Plant library
Ground cover
Sweet Woodruff
Galium odoratum
Zones 4–8
A shade-loving, sweet-scented carpet of whorled leaves with starry white flowers — a classic living mulch under trees.
Sun
Shade to part shade
Water
moderate
Spacing
12 in apart; forms a 12-18 in tall carpet
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained soil (pH 5.5-7.0)
Difficulty
easy
Zones
4–8
When to plant
See care notes for timing in your zone.
Timing shifts with your zone — the Genie can pin down exact dates for you.
How to care for it
Plant in early spring in a shady, moist spot enriched with leaf mold; it self-sows into a carpet. Keep watered in dry spells; no other care needed.
Good companions
Hostas, ferns, bleeding heart, under deciduous trees
Harvest
Cut leafy stems when in flower, dry them, and use sparingly to scent teas, syrups, or sachets.
Want a plan for growing Sweet Woodruff?
Your Genie can give exact timing and care for your zone.
