Lady's Bedstraw (Galium verum)

Family: Rubiaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Galium verum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

refreshing acid beverage. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; A yellow dye from the flowering stems is used as a food colouring.; The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.; The seed is also said to be edible.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste ground, roadsides etc, mainly near the sea, on all but the most acid soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)