The small, pale yellow flowers of Crosswort can be seen in grassy woodland rides, hedgerows and roadside verges between April and June. They appear up the length of the stem, surrounding the distinctive, cross-like arrangement of its leaves that give this plant its name. Crosswort prefers chalky or neutral soils and spreads using rhizomes (stems); it is a member of the bedstraw family.
How to identify
The tiny, yellow flowers of Crosswort appear up the stem. They surround whorls of four leaves that sit around the stem in a cross shape. The other yellow-flowered member of the bedstraw family, Lady's Bedstraw, has clusters of flowers at the ends of its stems, giving it a more 'frothy' appearance.
Did you know?
The tiny flowers of Crosswort have a honey-like scent.
How people can help
The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.
