Common Mouse-ear
Cerastium fontanum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
ME
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common mouse-ear is a low-growing perennial groundcover with small, fuzzy gray-green leaves and tiny white flowers. It blooms for an exceptionally long season from spring through fall, forming dense mats that spread readily. This hardy plant tolerates various conditions and can fill in spaces between other plantings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Mouse-ear 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.
- Often considered a weedy lawn invader
- Can spread aggressively and look unkempt
- May be mistaken for common lawn weeds
Wildlife value
The extended bloom period provides nectar for bees and beetles throughout most of the growing season. Its low, dense growth habit also offers shelter for beneficial ground-dwelling insects.
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 Common Mouse-ear fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.