Species Alpine Chickweed
a white flower with white filaments, yellow anthers, green leaves and stems

Alpine Chickweed

Cerastium alpinum subsp. alpinum

Alpine Chickweed is a short-lived perennial that looks like a carpet of tiny white stars in mountain meadows. It has glossy green foliage and a single line of five white petals encircling a yellow center. It displays bright yellow stamens, providing a striking contrast with the white petals. This hardy plant needs moist soil and full sunlight. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in sub-alpine regions. Alpine Chickweed also has sedative and calming properties, and can be used in teas and salves to soothe stress and anxiety.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Aleutian Chickweed should be watered twice a week, using a generous amount of water so that the soil is evenly moist without becoming soggy. During summer, water in the morning so the plant has time to evaporate any excess water before the sun sets. In winter, water a little less often but keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid saturating the soil, as this can cause root rot. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it is time to water.

sunlight

Aleutian Chickweed (Cerastium aleuticum) is best grown in full sunlight. This plant species prefers full sun exposure for 6 to 8 hours each day. When grown outdoors, it should be placed in an area where it will receive the most direct sun exposure possible throughout the day. It can tolerate some shade, but will not perform its best when placed in a darker environment. The ideal location for Aleutian Chickweed is a spot that is exposed to the sun for several hours in the early morning and late afternoon.

pruning

Aleutian Chickweed should be pruned to control its size, which may be necessary if it's planted in large areas. Pruning should ideally be done in early spring or mid-summer. Start by cutting back new growth at the beginning of the growing season and light pruning to shape the plant throughout the season. In order to keep the plant’s growth in check, it is important to trim off the flower stalks when they fade. The flower stalks should be pruned just above the stem to avoid leaving a stub. Additionally, the stems of the Aleutian Chickweed should be thinned out to promote air circulation and prevent fungal problems. Lastly, regular deadheading of the faded flower stalks will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and aid its overall maintenance.

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.