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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.

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.

Does Big Chickweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.