• A dense cluster of Galium boreale (Northern Bedstraw) in full bloom, with tiny, star-shaped white flowers forming airy, rounded sprays. The delicate petals contrast with the slender, whorled green leaves, set against a softly blurred natural background.
  • A small, compact clump of Galium boreale (Northern Bedstraw) growing in a rocky, open habitat. The bright white flowers stand out against the sparse, dry soil, while the fine, dark green foliage forms a low, bushy mound.
  • A single stalk of Galium boreale (Northern Bedstraw) with clusters of pale green and pink-tinted flower buds just before opening. The tall, upright stem is surrounded by a lush meadow of green grasses, hinting at its natural prairie habitat.
  • A top-down view of young Galium boreale (Northern Bedstraw) plants in a growing tray, showing fine, whorled leaves in shades of green and reddish-purple. The delicate, trailing foliage spreads outward, ready for transplanting.
1 4

Wild About Flowers

Galium boreale - Northern Bedstraw

Galium boreale - Northern Bedstraw

$5.50 CAD
Product Options

Northern Bedstraw is a resilient, clump-forming perennial with delicate clusters of tiny, star-shaped white flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer. Its slender, square stems and whorled green leaves create a fine-textured, airy presence in the landscape, making it a beautiful companion to taller wildflowers and grasses. As fall approaches, its foliage takes on a mix of green, yellow, and red hues, adding subtle seasonal interest. It is highly attractive to native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and has even been used by birds as nesting material.

Well suited for prairie plantings, open woodlands, and riparian areas, Northern Bedstraw adapts easily to a variety of conditions thanks to its ability to spread gently without becoming overly aggressive. Its low-maintenance, spreading habit makes it ideal for naturalized plantings, pollinator gardens, and as a ground cover in dry, challenging sites. Its aromatic foliage and slightly rough texture make it less appealing to deer, though they may nibble on it occasionally. Fortunately, it tends to recover well from browsing.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

View full details

Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 35

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Moist
  • Loam
  • Well Drained
  • Clay

Height

  • Under 12"
  • 12" - 24"

Width

  • Spreading

Bloom Colour

  • White

Month of Bloom

  • June
  • July
  • August

Vigorousness

  • Moderate
  • Fast
  • Aggressive

Deer Resistance

  • Moderate

Features

  • Birds
  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Fragrant
  • Long Bloom Time
  • Attractive Seed Heads
  • Fall Color
  • Used as Groundcover
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties
  • Good in Containers

Chinook Exposure

  • Fully Exposed

Distribution Info

Native to Canada, Northern Bedstraw is found in every province and territory, and it is common across the northern and western US making it one of the most widespread native wildflowers. Growing in grasslands, foothills, montane meadows, and forest edges, it thrives in a variety of habitat.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Indigenous peoples and early settlers used Galium boreale as a mild diuretic and tonic, and its dried stems were traditionally used for stuffing mattresses—hence the name "Bedstraw". Similar to other Bedstraw species, this plant also contains natural rennet, making it useful in cheese-making.