Cleavers

Description

Cleavers (Galium aparine) belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and is native to Europe. It thrives in Hedges, Woodland edges, Gardens, Waste ground environments across regions including All Europe, USA, Canada.

Botanically, Cleavers is sticky creeping weed. Leaves shoots salad. Seeds roasted coffee like. Leaves diuretic.. It is also known locally as Attaccaveste.

The edible parts include Shoots, Leaves, Roasted seeds. With an edibility rating of 5/10, it ranks as a moderate wild food source. Harvesting is best done during April, March and May.

Nutritionally, Cleavers stands out for its Vitamin C (25.0mg, 28% DV), Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% DV) and Vitamin A (50.0mg, 6% DV). It also provides 2.0g protein and 2.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Cleavers offers a Fresh grassy flavor profile. Raw shoots toasted seeds coffee. Common culinary applications include shoot salad, tea, coffee seed. Popular preparations include Cleavers salad, Cleavers coffee, Sauteed greens with garlic, Wild green pesto.

For storage, fresh 2d.

Safety note: No toxicity sticky. Antinutrient content is saponins mild. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect cleavers during Mar, Apr and May. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically hedges, woodland edges, gardens, waste ground. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional Europe communities have long valued cleavers as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, cleavers pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses

shoot salad, tea, coffee seed

Storage

Fresh 2d

Recipes

• Cleavers salad
• Cleavers coffee
• Sauteed greens with garlic
• Wild green pesto
• Leafy green soup
• Wild winter pesto made from Cleavers
• Traditional Cleavers soup
• Cleavers and potato frittata

Where It Grows