Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), also known as Jack-by-the-Hedge, is a native UK wildflower known for its distinctively fragrant, garlic-scented leaves and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland areas. This biennial plant produces small, white, four-petaled flowers that bloom in spring and early summer, attracting a wide variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Garlic Mustard is commonly found in woodland clearings, hedgerows, and along roadsides. It is a hardy plant that tolerates a variety of soil types but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. Aside from its ecological value, it is also valued for its edible leaves, which have a mild garlic flavor, making it a versatile plant for both ecological and culinary purposes.

Features & Benefits
Distinctive garlic-scented leaves that give it its name
White flowers that attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies
Thrives in shaded, woodland-like environments
Hardy biennial that adapts to a variety of soils
Edible leaves with a mild garlic flavor, offering culinary value

Latin Name:
Alliaria petiolata

Flowering Time:
April – June

Flowering Height:
30 – 80 cm

Life Cycle:
Biennial

Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
4.5kg per acre (11.125kg per hectare)

Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

How to Sow & Preparation
Select a partially shaded site with moist, well-drained soil.
Clear any weeds from the area and cultivate the soil to a fine, level seedbed.
Broadcast the seed evenly across the surface, either by hand or using a spreader.
Gently firm the seed into the soil using a roller or by walking over it.
Water lightly if needed during dry periods to assist with germination.

About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Latin Name | Alliaria petiolata

Common Name | Garlic Mustard, Jack-by-the-Hedge

Life Cycle | Biennial

Flowering Time | April – June

Flowering Height | 30 – 80 cm

Sowing Rate | 4.5kg per acre (11.125kg per hectare)

Sowing Period | Spring (March–May) or Autumn (August–October)

Preferred Conditions | Partial shade, moist, well-drained soil

Pollinator Friendly | Yes – attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects

Edible | Yes – mild garlic-flavoured leaves

Ideal For | Shaded habitats, woodland edges, hedgerows, roadsides, wildflower meadows

Minimum Order Quantity | 10g