Galium spp.; bedstraw [Rubiaceae]  Weak stemmed annuals or perennials characterized by whorls of small linear leaves well separated on the profusely branching square stems.  Flowers very small and usually white to greenish.  The dozen or so Wisconsin species differ in size of leaves or flowers, the number of leaves in a whorl, and in stems being smooth or rough with tiny bristles.  Different species range from dry woods to thickets to swamps, but all typically in semi-shaded locations.  Flowers in late spring and early summer.  [116]