Common Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Common Chickweed

Stellaria media

Tiny star-shaped blooms carpet the ground like scattered confetti. Low-growing annual herb; common name: common chickweed.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial sun to full shade; tolerates dappled woodland light and avoids intense midday sun exposure
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the growing medium to dry out completely
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in cool temperate conditions and struggles in prolonged high heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, oval to lanceolate leaves with smooth margins; pale green, soft texture
  • Flower: Small white star-shaped blooms with 5 deeply notched petals
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems with a single line of fine hairs along one side
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; mist lightly during dry spells to maintain humidity

Fertilization

Diluted organic feed every 2 weeks. Use balanced, low-strength organic feed to avoid over-fertilizing delicate foliage

Composted eggshell powder:Mix 1 tablespoon of fully composted eggshell powder into the top 2cm of soil monthly to boost soil structure and calcium content; avoid raw eggshells to prevent pest attraction
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown mats to maintain a neat, compact form
  • Deadhead spent blooms to prevent unwanted self-seeding in managed garden spaces
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: Edible in small quantities; no known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible young leaves for salads; traditional medicinal use for minor skin irritations