Also known as Adder's-Mouth · Chickweed · Chickweed Starwort
Common chickweed (Stellaria media) is a low-growing annual herb with small white flowers, often found in gardens and disturbed areas. It is edible and a food source for w
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
50% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of light conditions.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist soil, avoid drying out completely.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Cool to moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frost.
Low requirement
25% intensity
Generally does not require fertilization, can be sensitive to over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Common chickweed prefers consistently moist soil, especially during warmer months. Water regularly to prevent the soil from drying out completely, but avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Deep watering less frequently is better than shallow watering often, encouraging deeper root growth.
Pruning is typically not required for common chickweed unless you wish to control its spread or remove unsightly growth. Regular mowing or hand-pulling can effectively manage its size and prevent it from overwhelming other plants in a garden setting.
Common chickweed propagates readily through seeds, which can remain viable in the soil for many years. It also spreads vegetatively through fragments of stems that can root when they come into contact with moist soil, making it a prolific self-seeder and spreader.
Repotting is not applicable to common chickweed as it is typically grown as a groundcover or considered a weed. It thrives in situ and is not a potted plant requiring transplantation to larger containers.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Chickweed (Stellaria media)
Where Common Chickweed (Stellaria media) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Stellaria |
| Species | Stellaria media |
Similar in genus Stellaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
