Galium is a large genus of annual and perennial herbaceous plants in the family Rubiaceae, occurring in the temperate zones of both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

The field madder, Sherardia arvensis, is a close relative and may be confused with a tiny bedstraw.

Asperula is also a closely related genus; some species of Galium (such as woodruff, G. odoratum) are occasionally placed therein.

The phenotypic plasticity and genetic variability of this species allows it to be constantly shifting to best fit its environment adjusting life cycles, seed germination, productivity, growth form, freezing tolerance, etc.

[6] Cattle and other livestock don't often feed on this plant making it thrive and dominating over other species.