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Greater Chickweed

Stellaria neglecta

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Caryophyllales
Family:
Caryophyllaceae (Pink)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Annual or Perennial
Maximum Size:
80 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, grassland, hedgerows, meadows, riversides, roadsides, waterside, woodland.

Flower:
֍
White, 5 petals
 
Small white flowers, long-stalked. The flowers have 5 very deeply notched petals which make them look as if there are 10 petals. Similar in appearance to Wood Stitchwort (Stellaria nemorum) but with smaller flowers, yet larger than those of Common Chickweed. Flowers measure about 1cm in diameter. 8 to 10 pink stamens with dark purple anthers. Yellow pollen. Insect pollinated.
Fruit:
Green, hairy, oval fruits on long drooping stalks.
Leaves:
An annual or short-lived perennial, like a large straggling Common Chickweed (Stellaria media). Light green, pointed oval leaves. Only the lower leaves are stalked. The leaves are in opposite pairs along the stems. Also similar in appearance to Wood Stitchwort (Stellaria nemorum) but Greater Chickweed has a line of hairs along both sides of its stems and has shorter leaf stalks. Wood Stitchwort has hairs all round its stems. The leaves are not hairy and usually untoothed. The stems are square in cross-section.
Other Names:
Neglected Chickweed.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Stellaria neglecta, also known as neglected chickweed, is a small annual herb that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in grassy areas, gardens, and along the roadside. The plant has small, pale green leaves and delicate white flowers that bloom from spring to fall. It is often used as a medicinal plant and is known for its mild astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions and respiratory issues. Some people also use it as a natural remedy for digestive problems.

Blog

Greater Chickweed, also known as Stellaria neglecta, is a beautiful and delicate flowering plant that is native to North America. It is a low-growing annual plant that typically grows to a height of 8-12 inches and produces clusters of small white or pink flowers. The plant is easy to identify because of its small, star-shaped flowers and its succulent leaves that are smooth and fleshy.

Greater Chickweed is a highly adaptable plant that grows in a variety of soils and habitats. It can be found in meadows, fields, roadsides, and even in waste places, making it an ideal plant for people who are looking for a hardy and low-maintenance plant. The plant can also tolerate partial shade, making it ideal for planting in areas that receive some shade during the day.

One of the best things about Greater Chickweed is that it is a very hardy plant. It is resistant to drought and can grow in dry, nutrient-poor soils, making it ideal for planting in areas where other plants may struggle to grow. Additionally, the plant is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a great option for people who are looking for a low-maintenance and hardy plant.

Another great thing about Greater Chickweed is that it is an excellent source of food for wildlife. The plant's leaves, stems, and flowers are a rich source of nectar and pollen, which attract a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This makes Greater Chickweed an ideal plant for people who are looking to create a wildlife-friendly garden.

In conclusion, Greater Chickweed, or Stellaria neglecta, is a beautiful and hardy plant that is well-suited for a wide range of gardens and landscapes. Whether you are looking for a low-maintenance plant, a source of food for wildlife, or just a beautiful and delicate flowering plant, Greater Chickweed is an excellent choice.

Greater Chickweed is also used for medicinal purposes and has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The plant contains several beneficial compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, and tannins, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent properties. These properties make Greater Chickweed an ideal herb for treating a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

In addition, the plant has also been used to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds, and bronchitis. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe the airways and reduce symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. The plant's mild sedative properties also make it an ideal herb for treating anxiety and stress-related conditions.

It is important to note that Greater Chickweed is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and it is always best to consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any new herb or supplement. However, if used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, Greater Chickweed can be a valuable addition to your natural health arsenal.

In conclusion, Greater Chickweed is a versatile and hardy plant that has a variety of uses and benefits. From its delicate and beautiful flowers, to its medicinal properties, this plant has something to offer everyone. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why Greater Chickweed is quickly becoming a favorite among gardeners and natural health enthusiasts alike!


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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