Gardening SIG: Sweet Woodruff

From the III,2 Issue

Sweet Woodruff (which I’ve found listed as both asperula odorata and galium odoratum), is a white-flowered perennial that does well as a woodland cover. It originated in europe and north Africa, along the Rhine and in the Black Forest of Germany. As the name implies, it is very fragrant and was used as a “strewing herb”. By the 13th century it was used to flavor wine and liqueur, and even now is used for May Wine.

Sweet Woodruff blooms late spring to early summer, and grows to a height of 4” to 10”. It loves shady spots with moist soil. In a rock garden, some care would need to be taken to prevent it from overtaking everything!

The leaves are used for wines, liquers and sachets. They can also be used for herbal teas and other drinks. Small sprigs are pretty as garnishes.

May Wine

1 bottle white table wine (not Chardonnay)
3 sprigs fresh sweet woodruff
bruised fresh strawberries, sliced

Add sweet woodruff and berries to wine and allow to chill for flavors to develop. Perfect to serve at a wedding, garden party or on any warm evening.

Come Talk in the BellaOnline Gardening Forum
Garden SIG Homepage