Common Chickweed (Dicot weed, non-grass)
Stellaria media · Winter Annual; C3 metabolism; Broadleaf weed (not a true grass)
Grass Family
Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family), non-Poaceae
Grass Category
Invasive/Weed Grass; specifically a winter annual broadleaf weed common in lawns
Variety / Cultivar
None specified; wild-type species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-11; survives winter in many regions as a green mat, dying back in summer heat.
About This Grass
Succulent, light green herb forming dense, low-growing mats. Features highly branched, hairy stems and small white star-shaped flowers with five deeply notched petals that appear to be ten.
Blade Characteristics
Leaves are not blades; they are ovate/elliptic, opposite, smooth-margined, 1/2-1 inch long, with acute tips and light green color. Stems have a singular line of fine hairs.
Root System
Shallow, fibrous root system; delicate and easily hand-pulled, but stems break easily and can re-root at nodes.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and Asia; naturalized throughout North America and worldwide in temperate climates
Growth Habit
Prostrate, spreading mat-former; stems root at the nodes (pseudostoloniferous)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial sun to shade; thrives in moist, fertile soils and cool environments; low drought tolerance.
Mowing & Maintenance
Grows below standard lawn mowing heights (1-3 inches); standard lawn fertilization encourages growth; requires broadleaf herbicide for control.
Special Characteristics
Extremely high seed production; seeds can remain viable in soil for years; indicator of cool, moist, high-nitrogen soil conditions.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized; provides early season nectar for pollinators; edible for humans and poultry; considered a significant agricultural and turf weed.