Sweet
Woodruff
Sweet
Woodruff is a delightful little plant with soft green leaves
that grow in a whorl around square stems. The tiny white blossoms have a
delicate fragrance. When you crush the plant you can smell the aroma from
the chemical coumarin which is used by the perfume industry to help fix
fragrances. It is great for ground cover in shady locations and rarely becomes
a pest. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia.
Planting
Plant in well-drained, woodsy soil that retains moisture. Mulch thinly
in early spring to help hold moisture. During long dry spells provide
water. It spreads quickly with consistent moisture. No other care is needed.
Tips
As a ground cover it mixes well with spring or summer flowering bulbs
and lilies. You can divide clumps to increase your supply at any time
during the growing season. To keep it from spreading, drive a sharp spade
into the ground to define a boundary. Then pull up any runners that cut
beyond it.
The fragrant, dry foliage of sweet woodruff is excellent for sachets
or potpourris.
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