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Northern Bog Bedstraw

Galium labradoricum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Northern Bog Bedstraw (Galium labradoricum)
Photo: (c) aarongunnar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by aarongunnar

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

4"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CT, IA, IL, IN and 8 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Northern bog bedstraw is a low-growing perennial with delicate white flowers that bloom through summer. This native groundcover thrives in moist, shaded areas and forms spreading mats of fine-textured foliage. It naturally occurs in wetlands and boggy areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Northern Bog 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 informal, weedy appearance
  • Requires consistently wet conditions
  • May spread aggressively in suitable conditions

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the summer blooming period. Its low growth habit provides shelter for small ground-dwelling insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Northern Bog Bedstraw need?
Northern Bog Bedstraw grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Northern Bog Bedstraw bloom?
Northern Bog Bedstraw blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Northern Bog Bedstraw native?
Northern Bog Bedstraw (Galium labradoricum) is native to CT, IA, IL, IN and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Northern Bog Bedstraw attract?
Northern Bog Bedstraw draws bees and beetles.
Is Northern Bog Bedstraw HOA-friendly?
Northern Bog Bedstraw 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 Northern Bog Bedstraw? 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