Common names: catchweed bedstraw, cleaver’s bedstraw, goose grass, cleavers

Scientific names: Galium aparine (G. vaillantii

Seasons of significant use: summer (for Galium spp. complex)

Characteristics: Native, annual, cool season forb. Stems generally weak or reclining, to 3.0 feet, 4-angled, bristly on the angles, hairy at nodes; leaves mostly whorled in 6-8’s, simple, linear-oblanceolate, tapering at the base; inflorescences mostly 1-5 flowered on axillary peduncles; fruit is bristly. Flowers March-May.

Plant community type: Open and wooded areas.

More Plant Photos and Descriptions:
Appendix C: Plants by Common Name
Appendix C: Plants by Scientific Name
Appendix C: Plants Listed by Family