Rubiaceae
Galium boreale

Northern Bedstraw

Upright stem with whorls of 4 leaves, plant sticky to touch. Leaves somewhat leathery, 1/2–1 1/2 in. long, narrow to lance-shaped, blunt tips. Inflorescence dense with many clusters of numerous cream flowers. Flower bisexual, with 4 petals, later 2 nutlets side by side, covered with unhooked but curved hairs or hairless. Grows in wet places to moist meadows, forest edges, rocky slopes, from coastline to mid-elevations.

  • Rarity: Common
  • Flowering Time: Late Spring, Early Summer
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Height: 8--16 inches
  • Habitat: Coastal, West-Side Forest, Meadow, Bog/Fen/Wetland, East-Side Forest
  • Found In: Wallowas, Steens, Olympic Np, West Gorge, N Cascades Np
  • Native: Yes