Intermountain bedstraw facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Intermountain bedstraw
Scientific classification
Genus:	Galium
Species:	serpenticum

Galium serpenticum, also called intermountain bedstraw or many-flowered bedstraw, is a cool flowering plant. It belongs to the coffee family, just like the coffee plant! This plant grows naturally in the northwestern United States. You can find it in mountain forests and open meadows, especially east of the Cascade Range mountains. It lives in places like Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and the very northern parts of California.

This plant is a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. It grows in clumps with straight stems that can reach about 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) tall. Its stems have a woody base.

What it Looks Like

Galium serpenticum has stems with rings of four leaves. These leaves are shaped like a spearhead. At the top of the stems, you'll see small groups of tiny, whitish flowers. These flower clusters are called inflorescences.

Where it Grows

This plant is native to the northwestern United States. It prefers to grow in mountain areas. You can often find it in forests and open meadows. It is most common east of the Cascade Range mountains. Its home includes:

• Washington
• Oregon
• Idaho
• Northern California (specifically in Trinity, Siskiyou, and Modoc Counties)

Different Types

Scientists have found that Galium serpenticum has several different types. These are called subspecies. Each subspecies might have small differences and grow in slightly different areas within the plant's main range. For example, some subspecies are found only in certain parts of Oregon or Washington. Others might be found in specific mountain ranges, like the Scott Mountains in California.