Bedstraw
Classification:
Family: Rubiaceae, bedstraw family
Genus species: Galium aparine
Leaves:
Leaves are arranged in whorls of six to eight.
Flowers:
Flowers are very small, white or pale green with four petals. Flowers are borne on stalks extending from leaf nodes.
Fruit:
Fruit is a cluster of 1 to 3 small seeds, covered with a hook, easily attaches to animal fur or clothing for dispersal.
More Information:
Galium is from the Latin for "milk," refers to the fact that flowers were used to curdle milk and make cheese. The species name aparaine is from the Greek for "clinging or seizing," referring to the velcro-like hooks on the plant stems.
Photos:
Bedstraw fruit
