Jagged Chickweed (Holosteum umbellatum)

Jagged Chickweed

Holosteum umbellatum

Delicate star-shaped blooms dot low, mat-forming foliage. Annual herbaceous groundcover; common names: Jagged Chickweed, Umbellate Starwort.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates short periods of direct midday sunlight in cool temperate regions
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Watering Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil dries completely; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in cool temperate conditions; tolerates light frost down to 5°C and mild summer heat up to 25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear to spatulate leaves arranged oppositely; edges slightly jagged
  • Flower: Tiny white star-shaped blooms in umbel-like terminal clusters
  • Stem: Slender, branching, prostrate to ascending stems with fine hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Use diluted, low-nitrogen feed to avoid excessive foliage growth over flowering

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve drainage
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage extended flowering
  • Trim overgrown stems to maintain a compact mat form
  • Remove yellowing or diseased foliage to improve airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic; young leaves are edible in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, wildflower mixes; edible young leaves in small salads