Stellaria graminea
lesser stitchwort
A perennial with brittle, slender shoots arising from a creeping rootstock, bearing narrowly lance-shaped leaves and loose sprays of starry white flowers 6-10cm across in late spring and summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Stellaria can be annuals or herbaceous perennials, with slender stems bearing simple, opposite leaves and terminal cymes of white flowers with 5 deeply notched petals
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any moist, but well-drained soil in full sun. Grow in a wild garden or meadow to accomodate its spreading habit
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in spring in a cold frame or cold greenhouse. Once large enough to handle, prick out into individual pots and plant out in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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