Cerastium Viride

Description

Cerastium Viride, commonly known as Green Mouse-ear Chickweed, is a low-growing perennial herb that typically grows up to 10cm in height. It belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and is native to Europe and Asia. This plant has a mat-forming growth habit, with numerous stems that spread out radially from the center. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and hairy, and the flowers are white with five petals.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cerastium Viride is a low-growing plant that forms a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are hairy and gray-green in color, with an ovate shape. The flowers are small and white, with five petals that are deeply notched at the tips. They bloom in late spring and early summer and are followed by seed pods that are about 1cm long. The plant prefers cool temperatures and will often go dormant during hot, dry periods.

Care Guide

Cerastium Viride is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and thriving:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. It prefers moist, well-drained soil.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Cerastium Viride is hardy in zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cerastium Viride is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If powdery mildew appears, prune affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.

Habitat

Cerastium Viride is native to Europe and Asia and is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and rocky areas. It prefers cool, moist environments and is often found growing in shaded areas. In the garden, it is often used as a ground cover or in rock gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Cerastium Viride an invasive species?
A: No, Cerastium Viride is not considered an invasive species.Q: Can Cerastium Viride be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Cerastium Viride indoors, it prefers cool, moist environments and may not thrive in a typical indoor setting.Q: How often should I fertilize Cerastium Viride?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can Cerastium Viride be used as a lawn substitute?
A: Yes, Cerastium Viride can be used as a lawn substitute in areas with cool, moist climates.

Related Plants

• Cerastium Tomentosum
• Cerastium Arvense
• Cerastium Fontanum

References

• “Cerastium viride.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b835.
• “Cerastium viride.” Plant Finder. Accessed July 23, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/cerastium-viride.
• “Mouse-ear Chickweed.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed July 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10413/cerastium-viride/details.