Etymology: Galium: from Greek word gala, "milk," and alluding to the fact that certain species were used to curdle milk
Plants: erect to sprawling, perennial, 5"-24" tall forb, with many branches
Leaves: whorls of 6 leaves on the main stem and whorls of 4 on the branches, mostly rough edged, linear, and sharply pointed
Flowers: white, 4-parted, 1/8" wide; inflorescence a 2-3 times-branched cluster either terminal or spreading from the leaf axils; blooms June-Aug.
Fruits: smooth
Habitat: dry; woods
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 6, Wetland Indicator = FACU Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key.