Asperula pusilla

Alpine Woodruff

Tufted erect to trailing perennial herb, spreading on slender underground stems. Rough square stems have spreading or downward curved hairs.

FamilyApiaceae
StoreyLower storey
Sizestems to 10 cm long
Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
LeavesSmall shiny narrow leaves in rings of 6, 2-8 mm x 1.5 mm, bluntly tipped, small rough hairs mostly on midrib below, margins curved under.
Flower colourWhite or pinkish
Flowering timeOctober to March
FlowersSmall tubular flowers in terminal and upper axillary clusters of 1-3, male and female on separate plants.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist soil in subalpine grassland and woodland. Snow tolerant. Full sun, semi shade.
Garden useLittle plant for moist spots in cool areas.
Commercially availableNo information available
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. More common outside the Shire boundary.