Greater Chickweed, Common chickweed
Stellaria neglecta

Family: Caryophyllaceae

What it is like

Stellaria neglecta is a ANNUAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.1

Where it is found

Hedgerows, wood margins, streamsides and shady places.

Most of Europe, including Britain.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young leaves - raw or cooked. A famine food, it is only used when all else fails.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Prefers a moist soil.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedgerow;

Habit: Annual

Hardiness: 0-0

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Although no mention has been seen for this species, the leaves of some members of this genus contain saponins. Although toxic, these substances are very poorly absorbed by the body and so tend to pass through without causing harm. They are also broken down by thorough cooking. Saponins are found in many plants, including several that are often used for food, such as certain beans. It is advisable not to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

S. media neglecta. (Weihe.)Murr.