Crosswort (Smooth Bedstraw)

• Common Name: Crosswort (Smooth Bedstraw)
• Latin Name: Cruciata laevipes; syn. Galium laevipes
• Family Name: Rubiaceae

Crosswort is said to contain asperuloside, which can produce coumarin.  Coumarin in large quantities can act as an appetite suppressant and also has the potential to damage the liver.  The coumarin content in Crosswort, however, is said to be low and so we feel it would be safe to feed this plant in small quantities and as part of a larger, varied diet.  Because coumarin also facilitates the uptake of nitrates from the soil, it is also best to feed only young leaves.