Field Mouse-Ear Chickweed, Field chickweed
Cerastium arvense
Family: Caryophyllaceae
What it is like
Cerastium arvense is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from April to August, and the seeds ripen from May to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies and small bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Dry banks and waysides, and in grassland, especially on calcareous or slightly acid sandy soils, throughout Britain but mainly in the east.
Most of Europe, including Britain, south and east to N. Africa and temperate Asia..
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant is astringent. A decoction of the plant has been used in the treatment of injuries and miscarriage. A decoction is said to stop uterine bleeding and prevents the child from passing through the uterus.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
See the plants native habitat for ideas on its cultivation needs.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions in the summer. Division in spring. The prostate shoots root freely as they spread, making division very simple.
Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist