Galium aparine

Easily identified in the field by its tendency to stick to clothing and skin. 7-8 leaves in whorls.

Seed germination is high when first harvested (Steffen 1997). Germination is best in darkness and was shown to be retarded by as little as 20 percent daylight (Sjostedt 1959). Sjostedt found the optimum temperature for germination to be 58-68 F (15-20) C while Lauer (1953) found it or be 45-55 F (7-13 C). Neither found alternating temperature to increase germination.

Found in rich woods, thickets, prairies, seashores and waste ground throughout Louisiana and in east, central, and south Texas. It is not clear whether this species is native or naturalized (Correll & Johnson 1979).

Meadows and woodlands, roadsides, waste places, rich woods, thickets, prairies, seashores.

Ethnobotanical note from Flora of the Great Plains: " When the mature fruits are dried and roasted, they yield a coffeelike beverage, often reported to be the best coffee substitute in North America."