Cleavers (Galium aparine), also known as Goosegrass or Stickyweed, is a native annual herbaceous plant species commonly found across the United Kingdom. Belonging to the Rubiaceae family, it is prevalent in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, grasslands, and disturbed areas such as gardens, roadsides, and waste grounds.

Cleavers thrive in nutrient-rich, moist soils, often favouring shaded or partially shaded habitats. They are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, making them a common sight in both natural and urban landscapes.

Predators of Cleavers include herbivores such as insects and small mammals, which may feed on its foliage or seeds. However, its sticky stems and leaves often provide some protection from extensive browsing.

As an annual plant, Cleavers complete their lifecycle within one year, germinating from seeds in spring, flowering in late spring to early summer, and producing seeds before dying back in autumn. They reproduce primarily via seeds, which are dispersed by animals or clinging to fur or clothing, contributing to their ability to colonise new areas.

Culturally, Cleavers do not hold significant symbolic or traditional references in the UK. However, they are valued for their medicinal properties and have been used historically in herbal medicine to treat various ailments, including skin conditions, urinary tract infections, and lymphatic congestion.

An interesting fact about Cleavers is its ability to adhere to surfaces through small hooks on its stems and leaves, earning it the nickname “Velcro plant.” Additionally, its young shoots and leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked, adding a mild, slightly spinach-like flavour to dishes.