False Cleavers
Galium spurium
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
IL, MT
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
False cleavers is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces small white flowers from May through July. This spreading plant reaches up to 2 feet tall and prefers partial sun with moderate watering needs.
In an HOA neighborhood
False Cleavers 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 weedy appearance and growth habit
- Annual nature creates gaps and inconsistent coverage
- Common name includes 'cleavers' which suggests undesirable plant
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does False Cleavers need?
- False Cleavers grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does False Cleavers bloom?
- False Cleavers blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is False Cleavers native?
- False Cleavers (Galium spurium) is native to IL, MT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does False Cleavers attract?
- False Cleavers draws bees and beetles.
- Is False Cleavers HOA-friendly?
- False Cleavers 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 False Cleavers? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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