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Sweet Woodruff

🌿 Herb
Hardiness Zones 4a to 8b
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📖 About This Plant

Scented perennial groundcover with whorls of fresh green leaves and tiny white star-shaped flowers in spring. The sweetly aromatic leaves contain coumarin, which smells like fresh-mown hay. Classic German May Wine herb — used in traditional festival drink. Excellent shade-tolerant groundcover.

📊 Quick Facts

Sun
Partial to Full Shade
Water
Moderate
Season
Early Spring / Fall
Harvest
Year 1 (cut-and-come-again)

📅 When to Plant in Your Area

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🌱 Care Tips

Thrives in shade — ideal under trees and in woodland gardens. Spreads by runners to form a dense carpet. Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Harvest leaves just before flowering for peak fragrance. Dried leaves retain scent for years. In dry conditions, may go dormant in summer.

🤝 Companion Plants

These plants grow well alongside Sweet Woodruff:

Ferns Hostas Primrose Woodland Flowers

🌿 Related Herb

More herb that grow in similar conditions:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones can you grow Sweet Woodruff in?
Sweet Woodruff grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 4a–8b. Scented perennial groundcover with whorls of fresh green leaves and tiny white star-shaped flowers in spring. Always check your local zone before planting.
How much sun does Sweet Woodruff need?
Sweet Woodruff requires Partial to Full Shade. Thrives in shade — ideal under trees and in woodland gardens.
When should I plant Sweet Woodruff?
Sweet Woodruff is best planted in Early Spring / Fall. Thrives in shade — ideal under trees and in woodland gardens. Spreads by runners to form a dense carpet.
How long does Sweet Woodruff take to harvest?
Sweet Woodruff typically reaches harvest in Year 1 (cut-and-come-again). Water needs are Moderate. Grow it alongside Ferns and Hostas for best results.
Where can I buy Sweet Woodruff plants or seeds?
You can buy Sweet Woodruff from trusted online nurseries and seed suppliers. GrowScore links to the best-rated retailers for your region (US, Canada, and UK). Compare options on this page to find the best price and availability.
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Where to Buy

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