Galium parisiense

Scientific profile

Galium parisiense is a low-growing, non-woody herb reaching around 17 cm in height, with broad leaves and tiny diaspores. It is a member of the bedstraw family (Rubiaceae). The plant is well-adapted to full sun, dry soils, and nutrient-poor conditions, as indicated by Ellenberg indicator values of light 8, moisture 2, and nutrients 2. It shows a preference for warmth and tolerates only low levels of disturbance. An arbuscular mycorrhizal partner aids its nutrient uptake in poor substrates. In central Europe, it has been recorded in abandoned yards, old vineyards, and sunny disturbed ground. Flowering takes place from June to August. Its range encompasses much of Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. It carries a Red List status of 1, signalling acute conservation concern in some areas.