Stellaria

Stellaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae, commonly known as chickweeds or starworts. The genus comprises numerous herbaceous species distributed across temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and, through cultivation and dispersal, in many other parts of the world.

Most Stellaria species are small, herbaceous plants with creeping or upright stems and opposite leaves. Flowers are generally small and white, arranged in loose inflorescences. A distinctive feature is the five petals that are deeply cleft almost to the base, producing an apparent ten-petal star.

Stellaria species typically grow in moist, fertile soils and occupy disturbed habitats such as gardens, lawns, fields, hedgerows, and woodland edges. Several species are considered classical weeds in agriculture and horticulture, though some are valued for ground cover or native plantings.

Notable species include Stellaria media, the common chickweed, a widespread annual or short-lived perennial that often forms mats in lawns and gardens; and Stellaria holostea, the greater stitchwort, which has larger, showier white flowers and a more upright habit. S. media leaves are simple and oval, while S. holostea tends to have broader leaves and a taller growth habit.

Etymology: The generic name derives from Latin stella, star, in reference to the star-like flowers. The common names chickweed and starwort reflect traditional uses and flower appearance.