Common Marsh-Bedstraw (Galium palustre) is a native perennial herbaceous plant species found across the United Kingdom. Belonging to the Rubiaceae family, it is prevalent in wetland habitats, including marshes, fens, wet woodlands, and along stream banks.

Common Marsh-Bedstraw thrives in nutrient-rich, moist soils, often favouring wet or boggy habitats with acidic conditions. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it a common sight in marshy areas across the UK.

Predators of Common Marsh-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, Common Marsh-Bedstraw can live for several years, forming dense mats of foliage and spreading slowly via creeping stems called stolons. It reproduces via seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals, contributing to its ability to colonise new areas.

Culturally, Common Marsh-Bedstraw does not hold significant symbolic or traditional references in the UK. However, it is valued for its role in supporting biodiversity and providing habitat for insects and other wetland wildlife.

An interesting fact about Common Marsh-Bedstraw is its historical use in herbal medicine as a diuretic and mild sedative. Additionally, its tiny white flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to its ecological importance in wetland ecosystems.