Sticky Mouse-ear Chickweed (Cerastium glomeratum)

Sticky Mouse-ear Chickweed

Cerastium glomeratum

It spreads softly in lawns, a tiny wildflower with fuzzy charm. Short-lived perennial or annual wild herb; common name: sticky chickweed.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates compacted, low-fertility soils
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Watering Water sparingly; drought-tolerant once established, avoid waterlogged conditions
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Temperature Hardy to light frosts; thrives in cool temperate climates, tolerates summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to lanceolate, covered in sticky silvery hairs; opposite, sessile arrangement
  • Flower: Small white five-petaled blooms, clustered densely at stem apices
  • Stem: Slender, branching, hairy, trailing or upright growth form
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

No regular fertilization required. Avoid fertilizing to prevent excessive spread in managed lawns

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support flowering; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Trim back dense patches to control spread in garden beds or lawns
  • Remove spent flower heads to limit self-seeding if unwanted
  • Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans; young leaves are edible in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Young leaves are edible in raw salads or cooked greens; used as a wild forage plant