About
A semi-evergreen, annual wildflower which can be seen commonly in garden beds and borders, growing all year round in mild weather. It has fine, sprawling stems, small, fresh green leaves and tiny, star-shaped, white flowers from spring to autumn.
About the genus
Stellaria can be annuals or herbaceous perennials, with slender stems bearing simple, opposite leaves and terminal cymes of white flowers with 5 deeply notched petals
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrows naturally in open ground and can spread rapidly by seed in cultivated areas. Where it can be tolerated it adds to garden biodiversity, supports wildlife, and even provides fresh-tasting edible leaves. See chickweed for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationProduces vast quantities of seed which can remain viable for up to 25 years within the soil, germinating easily when brought to the surface
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free