Northern Bedstraw
Galium boreale
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Northern bedstraw is a low-maintenance perennial wildflower that forms clumps of narrow, whorled leaves topped with clusters of tiny white flowers in summer. This drought-tolerant native spreads slowly and works well as a filler plant in naturalized areas. It dies back in winter and returns each spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern Bedstraw 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 wild, weedy appearance year-round
- Small flowers and fine texture look unkempt
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its summer bloom period. Seeds provide food for small birds and the foliage can support some butterfly larvae.
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 Northern Bedstraw fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.