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Description
Cerastium Arvense, commonly known as field chickweed or mouse-ear chickweed, is a low-growing annual weed that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia but can now be found worldwide. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek words “keras” meaning horn, and “stion” meaning small stone, referring to the small, horn-shaped seed pods.This plant is often considered a weed due to its ability to spread quickly and grow in a variety of conditions. It can be found in gardens, fields, lawns, and disturbed areas. Despite its status as a weed, it has some beneficial uses. It is edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a vegetable. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Cerastium |
Appearance
Cerastium Arvense has a mat-forming growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 30 cm in length. Its leaves are small and oval-shaped, measuring about 1 cm in length. The flowers are white and star-shaped, measuring about 1 cm in diameter. They bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
Cerastium Arvense is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cerastium Arvense is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. These can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Cerastium Arvense can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, fields, lawns, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is native to Europe and western Asia but can now be found worldwide.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cerastium Arvense edible?
A: Yes, it is edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a vegetable.
Q: What is the best soil type for Cerastium Arvense?
A: It can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cerastium Arvense?
A: It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Q: Is Cerastium Arvense a pest or disease-prone plant?
A: No, it is relatively pest and disease-free.
Related Plants
- Cerastium Fontanum
- Cerastium Tomentosum
- Cerastium Diffusum
References
- “Cerastium Arvense (L.) – GBIF.” GBIF, www.gbif.org/species/5378420. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Cerastium arvense (field chickweed) – CABI.org.” CABI.org, www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/11763. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Cerastium arvense (field chickweed).” Invasive Species Compendium, www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/11763. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
