It does best in rich, loamy soil, but it also will grow in clay and sandy soil.

To prevent it from spreading too aggressively, only water the plant in times of prolonged drought.

But in very hot temperatures, sweet woodruff might go temporarily dormant.

Sweet woodruff plant with lance-shaped leaves and small white flower clusters

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

It should return once conditions moderate.

Fertilizer

Sweet woodruff generally requires no feeding.

For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.

Sweet woodruff plant with small white flower clusters in star shapes with lance-shaped leaves

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Propagating Sweet Woodruff

This plant is easily propagated via division simply by digging up sections.

The best time to do this is in the spring or fall.

Bloom Months

Sweet woodruff blooms in the spring, usually in May.

Sweet woodruff plant with small white flowers and lance-shaped leaves on side of path

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

What Do Sweet Woodruff Flowers Look and Smell Like?

Sweet woodruff flowers are quite small and star-shaped, with bright white petals that stand out among the foliage.

The aroma of the flowers (and foliage) has been compared to freshly mown hay and vanilla.

Sweet woodruff plant with lance-shaped leaves and small white flower clusters mixed with other foliage

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Consider watering your sweet woodruff more or moving into a brighter area to encourage more blooms.

Caring for Sweet Woodruff After It Blooms

Sweet woodruff does not require any specific care after blooming.

The fragrant white flowers attract both butterflies and bees.

Some companion plants for sweet woodruff include hostas, bleeding hearts, and rhododendrons.

Sweet woodruff can be used to repel moths and mosquitos.

For optimal fragrance, harvest the leaves of sweet woodruff right after the plant blooms.

Plant in moist but well-draining soil.

Siting the plant beneath a tree canopy is ideal.