UK Flowers (Herbs, Shrubs, Trees, Vines & Succulents)
About

Heath Bedstraw
Herb Icon Native Flower     First Aid Symbol 
Image of Heath Bedstraw
Galium Saxitale
Order: Gentianales Family: Rubiaceae

Flower Properties

Property Value
English Name Heath Bedstraw
MainColor White
PlantType Herb Icon Herb
Growth Type Native Flower Native
Season June
ImageUrl Galium-001
Photographer DP
Location
Human Toxicity Non_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

A delicate, mat-forming perennial with tiny white star-shaped flowers and fine leaves arranged in whorls. It often forms soft carpets over acidic grasslands and heathlands.

Distribution

Native to Europe, especially in upland and heath habitats of the UK. Prefers poor, acidic soils and is often found in moorland and heathy pastures.

Medicinal/Other Uses First Aid Symbol

Traditionally used as a mild diuretic and for treating skin conditions when applied externally. Herbalists also used it for urinary and liver complaints.

Edibility

Not generally eaten, but sometimes used as a curdling agent in cheese-making due to natural enzymes.

Human Toxicity

Safe in small traditional uses. Not a regular food plant and not cultivated for medicinal trade today.

Pet Toxicity

Not Toxic

Active Compounds

Contains tannins, coumarins, and flavonoids contributing to its mild medicinal effects.

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