Woodruff facts for kids

Woodruff plant

Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a special plant that has been used for a long time in medicine and for its pleasant smell. It grows to be about 30 to 50 centimeters tall, which is like the length of a school ruler.

What is Woodruff Used For?

Woodruff is a versatile plant with many interesting uses, especially in Germany. People often dry the plant, and then it can be used in different ways.

Scent and Flavor

• Making things smell nice: Dried woodruff is popular in potpourri, which is a mix of dried plants used to make rooms smell good.
• Keeping moths away: It can also be used to help keep moths away from clothes and other fabrics.
• Adding flavor to food and drinks: In Germany, woodruff is famous for its unique flavor. It is used to make many different foods and drinks taste special.
  • It flavors sausages, jelly, and jam.
  • It is also used in a soft drink called Tarhun, ice cream, and tea.
  • Sometimes, it is used to flavor a type of sherbet powder.

Traditional German Drinks

Woodruff has a long history of being used in traditional German drinks, especially during spring celebrations.

• May Punch: One popular use is in a special spring drink called "Maibowle" or May Punch. This drink is traditionally made with woodruff to give it a fresh, unique taste.
• Other flavored drinks: The plant's flavor is also added to some syrups and other beverages to create a distinct taste.

See also

In Spanish: Woodruff para niños