Species Great Chickweed
white flowers with yellow center, gray-green buds, leaves and gray-green stems

Great Chickweed

Cerastium maximum

Great Chickweed (Cerastium maximum) is an annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 12 inches in height. Its leaves are opposite along stems that are smooth and hairless. It bears small, whiteish flowers in pairs atop long, thin stems, usually blooming in late spring or early summer. Its thick, fleshy, and oval leaves are a dark green color, while its small, round seeds are black. It grows in many habitats, including disturbed soil, lawns, mossy areas, and seeps. It can tolerate drought, as well as salt and lime. It has some medicinal uses, as its leaves can be used as a poultice to release toxins from the body.

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,tan,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Water Common Mouse-Ear Chickweed regularly. In the spring and summer months, water the plant about once per week, allowing the soil to dry out in between watering. In the fall and winter months, water about once every 2 weeks, or as needed, allowing the soil to dry out in between waterings.

sunlight

Common Mouse-Ear Chickweed requires moderate sunlight for optimal growth. At least 4 hours of direct or indirect sunlight per day is required. During the growing season, it is beneficial to provide additional sun exposure to promote healthy leaves and flowers. During the winter months, some shade from direct sunlight should be provided to avoid heat stress.

pruning

Prune Common Mouse-Ear Chickweed (Cerastium fontanum subsp. vulgare) in the spring after the last frost. Pruning should be moderate, removing no more than a third of the foliage. This will encourage new growth and a bushy growth habit, while maintaining the flower production for which the plant is known. Pruning may also help to discourage weeds and pests by allowing better air circulation around the plant.

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.