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Public Plant Profile

Sweet Woodruff

Galium odoratum

Category: Groundcover • Sweet Woodruff

Sweet Woodruff is a fragrant perennial ideal for shady gardens and ground cover.

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Mature Width: 12 inches

Bloom Color: White

Bloom Time: Spring

Light: Shade

Zone: Zones 4-8

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Spring

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Sweet Woodruff is a perennial ground cover known for its fragrant, whorled leaves and delicate white flowers. It thrives in shady areas and is often used in woodland gardens.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in partial to full shade with consistent moisture. Prefers rich, well-drained soil.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil with moderate moisture; adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

ground coverpollinator garden

Special Features

Fragrant foliageattractive flowers

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for shaded areas and under trees. Can create a lush carpet effect.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sweet Woodruff a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

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