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Sticky chickweed
Also known as: Clammy chickweed, Mouse-ear chickweed
Sticky chickweed is a weedy annual found in many different habitats. It often grows in disturbed and well-drained soils. Sticky chickweed flowers in spring but dies back as the summer months heat up. A single stalk may bloom as many as 50 flowers at a time.
Scientific classification
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Weeds
Weed or not
Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Spring, Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
30 cm to 45 cm
Plant Height
25 cm to 45 cm
Spread
Green, Gray, Silver
Leaf Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Winter
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Sticky chickweed

Distribution of Sticky chickweed

Distribution Map
Sticky chickweed is a plant with a broad natural range including regions in Northern Africa, Southwest Asia, Europe, and Eurasia. It has been introduced to a vast array of areas spanning from the Americas to East Asia, including various islands and major regions in both temperate and tropical zones. Although native to temperate climates, sticky chickweed has adapted to more diverse environments in its extended range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Waste places, fields, roadsides
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Symbolism
I cling to thee.
Interesting Facts
Sticky chickweed is sometimes called annual mouse-ear chickweed. Although many mouse-ear chickweed plants are annuals too, sticky chickweed has a very short lifespan. The plant usually dies off as the days become hotter during the summer.
Name Story
Sticky chickweed||Sticky mouse-ear chickweed: The plants of the Cerastium genus are commonly known as mouse-ear chickweed. The name comes from the look of their hairy leaves which resemble mouse ears. In addition to that, the leaves of Cerastium glomeratum are sticky, hence the name sticky chickweed.
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Toxicity

Sticky chickweed is mildly toxic when consumed in large quantities, containing saponins in all parts. Ingestion can lead to abdominal distress, including diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea, especially in those with low tolerance. When made into a tea, it acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production.
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Weed Control

Sticky chickweed grows as a weed throughout much of the eastern and western United States, eastern Canada, and Mexico. It can be found in lawns, fields, gardens, and along roadsides. It is considered invasive in the states of Alaska and West Virginia. It is not an aesthetically appealing plant, and can reduce the garden's visual appeal. Since its seeds can grow under cool temperatures, it has a competitive advantage in that it can quickly colonize a new area before spring plants begin to grow. With a shallow root system, it can be managed by hand-pulling or application of a herbicide.
How to Control It
The best season for the removal of sticky chickweed is during spring, before the weed blooms and seeds. This plant spreads vigorously, so it's essential to get it under control during this time. Here are some organic or interesting methods of controlling this weed:
  1. Hand-Pulling: This is one of the easiest yet most effective methods. Use garden gloves to protect your hands and pull the weed out of the ground. Be sure to grip at the base of the plant to ensure you remove the root as well.
  2. Vinegar Solution: Mix a solution of 20% vinegar and 80% water. Spray this mixture directly on sticky chickweed. This acidity breaks down the plant's cell structure, causing it to dry out and die.
  3. Mulching: Spread a 3-inch layer of mulch around your plants. This blocks sunlight and suppresses weed growth. Remember to renew the mulch regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
  4. Use of Weed Barrier Cloth: Lay the cloth over the area infested by sticky chickweed. This creates a physical barrier, prevents weed growth and allows water and nutrients to pass through, benefiting wanted plants.
  5. Planting Competitive Plants: Plant species that can compete with sticky chickweed for resources. These plants should be fast-growing and provide dense ground cover to leave no room for sticky chickweed to establish.
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Quickly Identify Sticky chickweed

1
Grayish tint due to fine hairs on leaves and stems.
2
Petals with distinctive two-lobed shape and hairy sepals.
3
Diminutive capsule-like fruit with smooth surface and teeth at apex.
4
Leaves ovate, covered in sticky hairs, giving a grayish appearance.
5
Erect stems with soft hairs, green to purplish in color.
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Care Guide for Sticky chickweed

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Originating from temperate regions, sticky chickweed thrives in moderately moist soil, preferring consistent hydration but not waterlogging. Weekly watering is ideal, and mulching helps retain moisture, making it suitable for outdoor garden beds and ground cover.
Propagation: Spring is the ideal propagation season for sticky chickweed, with sowing as the preferred method. The difficulty is moderate, and successful propagation is indicated by healthy emerging plantlets. Ensure adequate moisture and warmth for optimal germination.
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