Lanceleaf Wild Licorice
Galium lanceolatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, DE, IL and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Galium lanceolatum is a delicate native wildflower that forms low clumps of narrow, lance-shaped leaves. It produces small white flowers in late spring through summer and goes dormant in winter, disappearing completely until the following growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lanceleaf Wild Licorice 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.
- Very small flowers may appear weedy
- Can look sparse or unkempt
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The flowers attract small bees and beetles during the blooming period. This plant provides modest pollinator support as part of a diverse native plant community.
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 Lanceleaf Wild Licorice fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.