Galium odoratum, commonly known as sweet woodruff, is a distinctive perennial herb native to Europe and western Asia. It is easily recognized by its whorls of lance-shaped leaves and clusters of small, starry white flowers that bloom in spring. When dried, the plant releases a pleasant scent of freshly cut hay due to the compound coumarin, which sets it apart from most other woodland herbs. This aroma once made it a traditional ingredient in potpourri and May wine. In nature, Galium odoratum forms dense ground cover in shaded forests, helping to stabilize soil and providing shelter for small invertebrates.
