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Giant Chickweed

Stellaria aquatica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Giant Chickweed (Stellaria aquatica)
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

8"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

VT

Pollinators

bees, flies

Giant chickweed is a sprawling annual wildflower that thrives in moist, shaded areas. It produces small white star-shaped flowers continuously from late spring through early fall. This plant naturally grows in wet meadows and along stream banks.

In an HOA neighborhood

Giant 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.

  • Has a distinctly weedy appearance
  • Sprawling growth habit looks unkempt
  • Name includes 'chickweed' which sounds like a weed

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for various bees and flies from May through September. Seeds may also provide food for small birds.

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