Cleavers
Galium aparine
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–72" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
VT
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cleavers is a fast-growing annual vine with small white flowers and distinctive sticky stems that cling to clothing and other plants. This sprawling native plant can quickly cover ground or climb through other vegetation, making it useful for naturalizing areas. It dies back completely each winter and reseeds readily in spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cleavers takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Considered weedy by most homeowners
- Sticky stems cling to clothing and pets
- Can overtake other plants aggressively
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the growing season. Birds often eat the seeds, and the dense growth provides cover for small wildlife.
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.
Does Cleavers fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.