Not a grass; identified as Creeping Speedwell or Common Chickweed (broadleaf weed)
Veronica filiformis or Stellaria media · Broadleaf weed, non-grass, dicotyledonous plant
Grass Family
Plantaginaceae or Caryophyllaceae (Not Poaceae)
Grass Category
Invasive/Weed Grass equivalent (Broadleaf Lawn Weed)
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9
About This Grass
This is not a true grass (family Poaceae) but a broadleaf weed commonly found invading lawns. It features small, rounded to ovate opposite leaves, delicate creeping stems that root at the nodes, and forms dense patches or mats. Flowers are small and blue or white depending on the exact species.
Blade Characteristics
Not applicable as it has broad leaves rather than grass blades. Leaves are opposite, oval to elliptic, light green, with smooth or slightly toothed margins and distinct veins. No ligules, auricles, or parallel venation.
Root System
Fibrous, shallow, rooting easily from creeping stems (stolons) that touch the ground, making it difficult to pull completely.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eurasia, widely naturalized globally in lawns and gardens
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and prostrate, forming low mats
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in moist, fertile soils and prefers partial shade to full sun. Often indicates overwatering, poor drainage, or compacted soil.
Mowing & Maintenance
Low mowing height can actually encourage its spread as it hugs the ground beneath mower blades. Controlled through selective broadleaf herbicides or hand-pulling.
Special Characteristics
Low wear tolerance, highly persistent in lawns, difficult to control with standard grass herbicides without broadleaf weed killers.
Ecological Information
Introduced weed species. Provides little value to turfgrass systems and competes aggressively with desirable turfgrass for nutrients, light, and water.