Definition

A type of plant that has whorled leaves and small flowers, often found in gardens or as a weed.

Example

The bedstraw in the garden attracted many bees with its tiny flowers.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed that bedstraw growing in the garden?

Yeah, I think it's that plant with the tiny white flowers, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how many people overlook bedstraw as just a weed.

I know! It actually has some pretty cool uses in herbal medicine.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Bedstraw** → The word 'bedstraw' is formed from 'bed' (from Old English *bedda*, meaning a sleeping place) and 'straw' (from Old English *streaw*, meaning dried grass or plant material). The term refers to a plant that was historically used to stuff mattresses, making beds more comfortable.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'bed' where you sleep and 'straw' that makes it soft — that's why bedstraw is associated with bedding.

Visually Confused Words