Lady Bedstraw (Galium verum) produces fragrant yellow flowers and thrives in sunny, dry meadows and verges. A classic UK native perennial, it supports pollinators and brings visual and ecological benefits to wildflower schemes.
Benefits
Bright, scented yellow flowers attract bees
Excellent for dry, sunny meadows and roadsides
Supports species-rich grassland creation
Long flowering season from June to September
UK native with traditional and ecological significance
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Lady Bedstraw (Galium verum) is a native UK perennial wildflower known for its vibrant clusters of tiny, bright yellow flowers that produce a sweet scent, especially in the summer sun. Traditionally used for stuffing mattresses and coagulating milk in cheese-making, this low-growing species is ideal for adding colour, fragrance, and biodiversity to meadows, grasslands, roadside verges, and wildlife-friendly planting schemes.
It flourishes in well-drained, neutral to calcareous soils and grows particularly well in sunny sites with low fertility. Lady Bedstraw is also a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators and is often included in wildflower mixes for species-rich grassland creation.
Features & Benefits
Bright yellow flowers with a pleasant summer scent
Thrives in sunny, well-drained conditions
Valuable nectar source for pollinators
Native UK species with cultural and ecological value
Ideal for meadows, verges, and grassland restoration
Latin Name:
Galium verum
Flowering Time:
June – September
Flowering Height:
30 – 60 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
2.75kg per acre (6.8kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Choose a sunny, well-drained site with low to moderate fertility.
Clear the area of weeds and rake the surface to a fine tilth.
Broadcast seed evenly by hand or with a spreader.
Firm the seed lightly into the soil by rolling or treading — do not bury.
Water gently in dry conditions to encourage germination.
Ongoing light mowing or cutting after flowering helps control grasses and support establishment.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.
Attribute Detail
Latin Name Galium verum
Flowering Time June – September
Flowering Height 30 – 60 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 2.75kg per acre (6.8kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Well-drained, low-fertility, neutral to calcareous soils
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Meadows, road verges, grasslands, wildlife gardens
