Galium aparine L.
Family: Rubiaceae

Pertinent Synonyms & Notes (particularly those used in California; go to GRIN for other synonyms)

none

Pertinent Common Names (particularly those used in California; go to GRIN for other common names)

catchweed bedstraw

Primary Disseminule Type

fruit segment

Description (diagnostics are in brown)

Fruit a schizocarp, broader than long, consisting of two globose segments (mericarps, or sometimes called nutlets) that separate at maturity but do not release their seeds.

Mericarp nearly spherical, with a single deep, elongated depression on adaxial side covered with thin scar-like tissue (the attachment scar is at the elevated end of the depression), 2–5 mm diameter. Surface is rough and closely covered with hooked transparent bristles 0.6–1 mm long sitting atop distinct tubercles. Overall color is grayish-green, yellowish-brown or grayish-brown; the bristles are colorless or orange-flecked.

Risk Assessment (codes in yellow or red indicate cause for concern; assessments are current as of mid-2011; click AUQP, NZBORIC, or NZBPI for access to the most recent versions of these databases and possible assessment changes)

AUQP, NZBORIC, NZBPI