Rubiaceae
Galium oreganum

Oregon Bedstraw

Erect stem with whorls of 4 broadly egg-shaped leaves. Leaf 1–2 in. long, smooth, with 3 main veins. Inflorescence atop stem in loose cluster of few greenish or yellowish white flowers. Flower has 4 lobes. Each flower produces 2 nutlets covered with long hooked hairs. Grows in open conifer forests into mid-elevations. All bedstraws that have hooked hairs on nutlets are spread by passing animals; nutlets often stick to clothing, so humans also help with propagation

  • Rarity: Locally Common
  • Flowering Time: All Summer
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Height: 8--12 inches
  • Habitat: Coastal, West-Side Forest
  • Found In: Olympic Np, Mt. Rainier Np, N Cascades Np, Crater Lake Np, West Gorge, Siskiyous
  • Native: Yes

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