Giant chickweed (Myosoton aquaticum)

Giant chickweed

Also known as: Water starwort

Giant chickweed naturally occurs in the temperate regions of Western Europe, in wet and moist areas. The white flowers attract bees and Syrphid flies, the foliage attracts rabbits, and the seeds are attractive to sparrows and other birds.

Scientific classification

Species

Giant chickweed (Myosoton aquaticum)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

15 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

1.3 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Giant chickweed

Weed Control

Originally from Europe, giant chickweed is also found across the United States and Canada. Giant chickweed is an aquatic plant which can be aggressive to native species and prefers wet or moist environments.

How to Control It

The best season for the removal of giant chickweed typically falls during late spring or early summer. Ideally, these weeds should be removed before they start their blooming phase to prevent them from setting and spreading seeds.

Hand Pulling: Put on your gardening gloves and start by first wetting the soil around the giant chickweed. The wet soil will loosen the grip of the roots, making it easier for you to pull out the plant. Grasp the weed firmly at its base and pull gently, ensuring you're removing the entire root system to prevent it from regrowing.
Smothering: This method works great for larger infestations. Start by trimming the giant chickweed close to the ground. After which, cover the entire area with several layers of newspaper or a landscape fabric. Top this off with mulch. Over time, the smothering will block sunlight and starve the weed, leading to its death.
Vinegar Spray: For a natural, organic weed killer, vinegar is an excellent choice. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap to stick to the leaves. Spray on the giant chickweed on a sunny day to maximize the effect. Just be cautious not to spray on other desired plants as vinegar is non-selective and can harm them.
Digging: For stubborn, well-established giant chickweed, you might need a garden fork or a weed digger. Push the tool into the ground around the weed and then lever it out, taking care to remove all the root fragments.
Using a Weed Torch: A propane weed torch can be used to kill giant chickweed plants. Hold the flame over the weed until its leaves start to wilt. This will destroy the plant cells, causing the weed to die. It's best to use this method on a calm day to prevent the flame from spreading to other plants.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Giant chickweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Giant chickweed thrives in damp habitats, needing regular hydration for lush growth without oversaturation. Weekly watering is ideal, and rainwater further enhances its nutrient uptake during the growing season, making it crucial for maintaining its health.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Giant chickweed

Weed Control

Care Guide for Giant chickweed

PEOPLE ALSO ASK