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Big Chickweed

Cerastium holosteoides

Last reviewed: June 2026

Big Chickweed (Cerastium holosteoides)
Photo: (c) Dmitriy Bochkov, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Dmitriy Bochkov

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

4"–16" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

NH

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Common mouse-ear chickweed is a low-growing perennial with small white flowers that bloom from May through July. This hardy groundcover spreads readily and tolerates various growing conditions, making it useful for naturalizing areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Big Chickweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Considered a weedy species by most homeowners
  • Spreads aggressively and can overtake desired plants
  • Very informal appearance that looks unkempt in maintained landscapes

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract bees and beetles during the spring and summer blooming period. This plant provides early season nectar when few other flowers are available.

Common questions

How much sun does Big Chickweed need?
Big Chickweed grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Big Chickweed bloom?
Big Chickweed blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Big Chickweed native?
Big Chickweed (Cerastium holosteoides) is native to NH, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Big Chickweed attract?
Big Chickweed draws bees and beetles.
Is Big Chickweed HOA-friendly?
Big Chickweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Big Chickweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz