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Dyer's Woodruff

Asperula tinctoria

Last reviewed: June 2026

Dyer's Woodruff (Asperula tinctoria)
Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

NH

Pollinators

bees, beetles

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.

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 Dyer's Woodruff fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.