Cerastium fontanum
common mouse-ear
A low-growing, mat-forming short lived perennial with curved, hairy opposite leaves. Produces clusters of small white flowers with deeply lobed petals, from April to November.
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming, Spreading branched
- Genus
Cerastium can be annuals or mat-forming perennials, with simple leaves and star-shaped 5-petalled white flowers
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Will tolerate a range of soil conditions and does well on poor soil. Self-seeds prolifically and is often considered a weed
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
No pruning required, remove before seeds develop if seeding is not desired
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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