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Description
Stellaria Cuspidata, also known as pointed starwort, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically in the eastern and central parts of the United States and Canada. This plant grows up to 20 inches tall and spreads up to 16 inches. It has a mat-forming habit and produces small white flowers with five petals that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Stellaria |
Appearance
Stellaria Cuspidata has lance-shaped leaves that are grayish-green in color and grow up to 1 inch long. The leaves are opposite and arranged in pairs along the stem. The stem is slender, slightly hairy, and green. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, with five petals that are deeply divided to form 10 lobes. The flowers are about 1/4 inch wide and bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. After flowering, the plant produces small, seed-filled capsules that split open to release the seeds.
Care Guide
Stellaria Cuspidata prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, and prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stellaria Cuspidata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Stellaria Cuspidata is commonly found in moist meadows, along streambanks, and in other wet areas. It is also found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is well-drained.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stellaria Cuspidata a good plant for a shade garden?
A: Yes, Stellaria Cuspidata prefers partial shade to full sun and can be a good choice for a shade garden.
Q: Can Stellaria Cuspidata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Stellaria Cuspidata can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Stellaria Cuspidata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Stellaria Cuspidata produces small white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Does Stellaria Cuspidata require pruning?
A: Stellaria Cuspidata does not require pruning, but deadheading the spent flowers can promote more blooms.
Related Plants
- Stellaria Longipes
- Stellaria Media
- Stellaria Nemorum
- Stellaria Pubera
References
- “Stellaria Cuspidata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b596.
- “Stellaria Cuspidata.” Plant Database, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=STCU2.
- “Stellaria Cuspidata.” Flora of North America, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250060937.
