Galium mollugo aka False Baby's Breath

Taxonomy

Galium mollugo, also known as hedge bedstraw or false baby's breath, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It can either be an annual or perennial plant, depending on the species. The stems are square in cross-section and can reach a height of 15-100 centimeters. Its inflorescences consist of small white flowers with four petals that bloom from May to September. However, this plant may be poisonous. To get rid of Galium mollugo, chemical weed control is considered the most effective and time-efficient method, using herbicides that don't harm surrounding plants. False Baby's Breath is a rare houseplant that thrives with regular watering, direct light within 1 foot of a window, and well-draining soil. It doesn't need additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

False Baby's Breath, Hedge Bedstraw, White Bedstraw, Wild Madder

How to care for False Baby's Breath

Difficulty

Caring for False Baby's Breath is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

False Baby's Breath should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

False Baby's Breath loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the False Baby's Breath prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The False Baby's Breath should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

False Baby's Breath’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, to N. Africa and temperate Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia