White bedstraw
Galium album
Galium album is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Rubiaceae. Commonly known as "White Bedstraw", it is native to various regions including the Comunidad Valenciana in Spain. This plant is often characterized by its fine, hairy stems and small, delicate, white flowers.
- Appearance: The plant typically grows up to 60-120 cm tall. Its stems are thin and square in cross-section, covered with tiny hairs. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, typically arranged in whorls of six to eight around the stem.
- Flowers: The flowers of Galium album are small, white, and form dense clusters. They bloom in late spring and summer, offering a subtle but attractive display.
- Habitat: This species thrives in a variety of environments such as meadows, grasslands, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soils and can be found at various altitudes.
- Distribution: In the Comunidad Valenciana, Galium album is found in both coastal and inland areas, adapting well to the Mediterranean climate.
- Local Name: In some regions of Spain, it is locally referred to as "Cuernecillo blanco" due to its characteristic white flowering clusters.
This plant plays an important role in the local ecosystem, providing food and habitat for various insect species. Its delicate beauty and ecological significance make it a notable species in the flora of the Comunidad Valenciana.