Dyer's Woodruff
Asperula tinctoria
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
NH
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Dyer's woodruff is a compact perennial herb that forms neat clumps of narrow green leaves. It produces clusters of small white or pale yellow flowers in late spring and early summer, creating a delicate cottage garden appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dyer's Woodruff 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.
- Non-native European species
- Small flowers may appear weedy to conservative neighbors
- Relatively unknown plant could raise questions
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beneficial beetles during the blooming period in May and June. As a non-native herb, it provides limited ecological value compared to native alternatives.
Common questions
- How much sun does Dyer's Woodruff need?
- Dyer's Woodruff grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Dyer's Woodruff bloom?
- Dyer's Woodruff blooms in May and June.
- Where is Dyer's Woodruff native?
- Dyer's Woodruff (Asperula tinctoria) is native to NH, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Dyer's Woodruff attract?
- Dyer's Woodruff draws bees and beetles.
- Is Dyer's Woodruff HOA-friendly?
- Dyer's Woodruff 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 Dyer's Woodruff? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz