Sweet Woodruff

Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is the ultimate "living carpet" for the shaded garden, prized for its delicate beauty and enchanting fragrance. This deciduous perennial forms a lush, whorled mat of emerald-green foliage that looks like tiny stars scattered on the forest floor. In late spring, it is completely covered in a frothy sea of tiny, star-shaped white flowers that emit a soft, sweet scent reminiscent of freshly mown hay or vanilla.

As a versatile member of the Galium genus, Sweet Woodruff is one of the best groundcovers for suppressing weeds in deep shade. It spreads gracefully to fill gaps under trees and shrubs and is famously deer and rabbit resistant. The foliage becomes even more aromatic when dried, often used in sachets or traditional May Wine. Why you’ll love it: Charming star-shaped foliage, fragrant white spring flowers, and a resilient nature that thrives in damp shade where other plants struggle.

This healthy 4" live plant thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, organic-rich soil.