The Bedstraw family is distinguished by square stems and leaves arranged in whorls. Many species were historically important for dyes and herbal medicine.
Ladies Bedstraw
Galium verumRecorded: 02.09.2023
Unlike most white-flowered bedstraws, this species produces froth-like clusters of bright yellow blossoms with a sweet, honey-like scent.
Historical Note: Used as a mattress stuffing to repel fleas and to curdle milk in cheesemaking.
Crosswort
Cruciata laevipesThe four-leaved whorls give this species its common name. The tiny yellow flowers appear in the axils of the leaves in spring.
Identification: Note the hairy stems and leaves, which distinguish it from Ladies Bedstraw.
Squinancywort
Asperula cynanchicaSite: Lancing Ring (Chalkpit)
A delicate specialist of short, chalk grassland. It has very narrow leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers.
Habitat: Thrives in the high-quality downland turf of the Lancing Ring area.