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Bluntleaf Bedstraw

Galium obtusum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Bluntleaf Bedstraw (Galium obtusum)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute., no known copyright restrictions (public domain)

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bluntleaf Bedstraw as toxic to livestock.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

8"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

East Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central Plains

Bluntleaf bedstraw is a low-growing native perennial that forms loose clumps with small, narrow leaves arranged in whorls around square stems. It produces tiny white flowers in summer and has a somewhat informal, meadow-like appearance. This plant works well as groundcover in naturalized areas or mixed perennial borders.

In an HOA neighborhood

Bluntleaf Bedstraw takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Has a weedy, informal appearance that may not meet front yard standards
  • Low height and loose growth habit can look unkempt
  • Name includes 'bedstraw' which has negative connotations

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. The plant also provides habitat for beneficial insects and can support certain butterfly larvae.

Common questions

How much sun does Bluntleaf Bedstraw need?
Bluntleaf Bedstraw grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Bluntleaf Bedstraw bloom?
Bluntleaf Bedstraw blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Bluntleaf Bedstraw native?
Bluntleaf Bedstraw (Galium obtusum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Bluntleaf Bedstraw toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bluntleaf Bedstraw as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Bluntleaf Bedstraw attract?
Bluntleaf Bedstraw draws bees and beetles.
Is Bluntleaf Bedstraw HOA-friendly?
Bluntleaf Bedstraw takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Bluntleaf Bedstraw? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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