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blue woodruff

Scientific Name: Asperula arvensis

Family: Rubiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Blue Woodruff

Blue Woodruff is an attractive annual known for its delicate blue flowers and fragrant foliage, making it a favorite among herb gardeners and a beautiful addition to cottage gardens.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Asperula arvensis L. (accepted name), Asperula orientalis
  • Common Names: Blue Woodruff, Annual Woodruff, Oriental Woodruff, Blue Fieldmadder
  • Family: Rubiaceae (Bedstraw Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Synonyms: Galium arvense (Linnaeus) F. Hermann, Asperula azurea, Asperula ciliata
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that "Blue Woodruff" is also associated with "Prickly Pink" in the context of rockeries. While not definitive, this alludes to potential textural components (bristly leaves, stems) that might be of interest to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant has slender stems and may have small parts (seeds) that could pose a choking hazard if ingested by young children.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to some regions but has been introduced to areas like New England, with populations found in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
  • Grows well in shade to partial, filtered sun and prefers humus-rich soil.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • An annual herb that grows upright to spreading.
  • Features bristly, whorled, ovate to lance-shaped, mid-green leaves.
  • Produces slender stems bearing clusters of lavender-blue tubular flowers from early to late summer (June/July onwards).
  • Self-seeds readily.
  • Suitable for window boxes.

Ecological Role

  • In some regions, Asperula arvensis is considered an invasive species.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The flowers attract butterflies.
  • It serves as a terrific companion plant for roses, shrubs, and large perennials.

Quirky Facts

  • The flowers are described as being like "clusters of tiny trumpets."
  • It is described as a treasure, freely blooming with little care.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
  • Suttons Seeds and Plants: A source for flower seeds.
  • NBNSYS0000165334: Taxon Version Key
  • Australian Plant Census: Data links to LSID JSON / WMS / RDF