Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum), also known as Yellow Bedstraw, is a native perennial herbaceous plant species found throughout the United Kingdom. Belonging to the Rubiaceae family, it is prevalent in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, heathlands, and roadside verges.

Lady’s Bedstraw thrives in nutrient-poor, well-drained soils, often favouring dry or chalky substrates. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate both sunny and partially shaded habitats, making it a common sight in British landscapes.

Predators of Lady’s Bedstraw include herbivores such as insects and grazing mammals, which may feed on its foliage. However, its bitter-tasting leaves and tough texture often provide some protection from extensive browsing.

As a perennial plant, Lady’s Bedstraw can live for several years, forming dense mats of foliage and spreading slowly via creeping stems called stolons. It reproduces primarily via seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals, contributing to its ability to colonise new areas.

Culturally, Lady’s Bedstraw holds significant symbolic and traditional references in the UK. Historically, it was used as a strewing herb, placed in bedding to impart a sweet fragrance and repel insects. Additionally, it was once used to stuff mattresses, giving rise to its common name. Lady’s Bedstraw also has associations with the Virgin Mary, hence the name “Lady’s.”

An interesting fact about Lady’s Bedstraw is its ability to produce a bright yellow dye from its flowers, which was used historically to dye textiles and food. Additionally, its flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for supporting biodiversity in British habitats.