Sweet-scented Bedstraw leaves are arranged in whirls around the stalk. They are easily distinguished from their close relative Cleavers by their sweet smell of fresh-mown hay, and not clinging to fabric and fur. Mature Cleaver stems are also considerably longer. Sweet-scented Bedstraw grows to about 20cm and has a short season. It is in its prime from late April to May.

Sweet-scented Bedstraw usually forms dense patches and prefers alkaline soil. It is sometimes found in shady cottage gardens, especially derelict ones in the country side, where previous owners have discarded wood ashes.