Common Chickweed

Stellaria media

Common Chickweed is a winter annual broadleaf weed that is also commonly called Alsine media, Starwort, Starweed, Bindweed, Winterweed, Satin Flower and Tongue-grass. Its scientific name is Stellaria media.

Identity

Opposite

Entire

Common Chickweed can be identified by its horizontal stems, which branch out and form relatively smooth leaves (there may also be one or two rows of hairs present). Its stems and leaves are both light-green in color. This broadleaf weed has a shallow, fibrous root system, and reproduction occurs by seeds. Common Chickweed can be distinguished from Mouse-Ear Chickweed in that its stems are far less “fuzzy” in appearance, featuring fewer rows of hairs.

Life Cycle

This broadleaf weed grows in wet or moist areas of your lawn. It thrives in the shade and in semi-shaded areas. It can be found throughout much of the continental United States, with the exception of high-altitude locations and rocky terrain.

Control

Proper cultural practices—such as proper mowing and watering—can help to prevent Stellaria media by creating dense grass, which inhibits this broadleaf weed’s ability to grow. Physical removal (i.e., pulling weeds) can be effective, though you run the risk of spreading the seeds to additional areas of your lawn.