Chickweed, Common mouse-ear chickweed, Big chickweed

Cerastium fontanum

Physical Characteristics

Cerastium fontanum is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[177]. Leaves and young stems - cooked[105].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known