Bedstraw (Cruciata): A Delicate Ground Cover for Your Garden
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance ground cover that adds a touch of delicate charm to your garden, bedstraw might just catch your eye. This unassuming little plant has quietly made itself at home across much of the United States, though it’s not originally from these parts.
What is Bedstraw?
Bedstraw is a non-native herbaceous plant that originally hails from Europe and Asia. As a forb, it’s essentially an herb without any woody stems – think of it as nature’s version of a soft, green carpet. This adaptable little plant can be either annual or perennial, depending on growing conditions, and has a knack for establishing itself in new areas without much fuss.
Where You’ll Find Bedstraw Growing
Bedstraw has spread quite extensively across the United States, currently found in 26 states including Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.
Should You Plant Bedstraw in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting. While bedstraw isn’t native to North America, it’s also not currently classified as invasive in most areas. However, as responsible gardeners, it’s worth considering native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Reasons You Might Like Bedstraw:
- Extremely low maintenance once established
- Produces delicate white or pale yellow flowers in charming clusters
- Attractive whorled leaf arrangement
- Tolerates various growing conditions
- Attracts small pollinators like flies and beneficial insects
- Works well as ground cover in informal settings
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Non-native status means it doesn’t support native wildlife as effectively
- Can self-seed readily, potentially spreading beyond intended areas
- Native bedstraw species offer similar aesthetics with better ecological benefits
Growing Bedstraw Successfully
If you decide to grow bedstraw, you’ll find it refreshingly easy to please. This adaptable plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9, making it suitable for most temperate regions.
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Light: Partial shade to full sun
- Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, but prefers consistently moist conditions
- Water: Regular moisture, though established plants show some drought tolerance
- Maintenance: Minimal – this is a plant it and forget it kind of species
Design Ideas and Garden Applications
Bedstraw works beautifully in cottage gardens, naturalized areas, and meadow-style landscapes. Its delicate texture and small flowers make it perfect for:
- Underplanting beneath taller perennials
- Filling gaps in informal garden borders
- Creating soft transitions between cultivated and wild areas
- Adding texture to rain gardens or moist areas
Planting and Care Tips
Growing bedstraw is straightforward, but here are some tips for success:
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Space plants about 12-18 inches apart for ground cover effect
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency
- No fertilization needed – bedstraw thrives in average soils
- Monitor for self-seeding and remove unwanted seedlings promptly
- Cut back in late fall or early spring to encourage fresh growth
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While bedstraw does attract some small pollinators and beneficial insects, native alternatives typically provide more substantial ecological benefits. The small flowers appeal to flies, tiny bees, and other minute pollinators, but the plant doesn’t offer the same level of support to native wildlife as indigenous species would.
Consider Native Alternatives
Before planting bedstraw, consider exploring native bedstraw species that might be suitable for your region. These alternatives offer similar aesthetic appeal while providing better support for local ecosystems and wildlife. Check with your local native plant society or extension office for recommendations specific to your area.
The Bottom Line
Bedstraw can be a charming addition to informal gardens, offering delicate beauty with minimal maintenance requirements. While it’s not problematic in most areas, choosing native alternatives when possible helps support local ecosystems. If you do decide to grow bedstraw, monitor it for excessive self-seeding and enjoy its understated charm in the right garden setting.
