Greater stitchwort - Stellaria holostea (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Greater stitchwort

Also known as: Satin flower

Greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea) is a herbaceous perennial that will grow from 20 to 30 cm tall. It blooms from spring to summer with white star-shaped flowers. Seeds make a popping sound as they ripen and are dispersed. It thrives in partial shade and is commonly found growing along forest edges and parks. Attracts bees butterflies and other pollinators to its sweet nectar.

Scientific classification

Species

Greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

60 cm

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Green, White

Stem Color

Images of Greater stitchwort

Culture

Garden Use

Greater stitchwort is a trouble-free wildflower you can grow in Mediterranean gardens as a groundcover beneath shrubs and trees. The grass-like stems can carpet the ground without distracting from other garden elements until flowers bloom, creating their own visual interest.

Interesting Facts

Greater stitchwort's stems act brittle when bent, and can easily be broken off. This action happens spontaneously as winter approaches - most of the smaller branches will fall and litter the ground around the plant only to be replaced in spring. Also seemingly brittle are the seed pods, which make a small popping sound when they ripen and open.

Name Story

Greater stitchwort: The term "wort" is included in the common names of plants that are (or were in the past) considered medicinal. Greater stitchwort was said to treat side stitches - pain in the sides of one's body - that sometimes occur when running. Its true efficacy is debatable, especially since side stitches tend to fade fairly quickly.

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Toxicity

Greater stitchwort is mildly toxic to humans primarily through ingestion. It contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and mucous membrane irritation (sore throat, abdominal pain). All parts of the plant should be avoided to prevent adverse health effects.

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Care Guide for Greater stitchwort

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from European woodlands, greater stitchwort thrives in consistently moist soil with good drainage and moderate drought tolerance. For optimal growth, it should be watered weekly. Commonly grown outdoors, greater stitchwort adapts to temperate climates, with flowering linked to adequate watering during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth in greater stitchwort, apply a balanced fertilizer once in spring and monthly during growth. Avoid high nitrogen formulas to maintain blooms. Adjust feedings seasonally, reducing in winter, and ensure moist soil before application to prevent root burn. Consider time-release options for steady nutrition.

Pruning: Greater stitchwort is a herbaceous perennial with star-shaped white flowers. Prune in early to late spring to promote growth and flowering. Remove dead stems, trim overgrown sections, and use clean shears to ensure minimal damage. Proper pruning prevents overcrowding and enhances airflow.

Propagation: Greater stitchwort can be propagated by sowing seeds collected after flowering. The seeds should be lightly covered in moist, well-draining soil for optimal germination. Protect seedlings from extreme conditions until they are established for transplanting to their final garden positions.

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