Species Bering Chickweed
white flowers with yellow center, green leaves, white buds and green stems

Bering Chickweed

Cerastium beeringianum

Bering Chickweed (Cerastium beeringianum) is a low-growing, hairy perennial plant native to the maritime regions of North America, with specific regions in Alaska and Siberia. With delicate white flowers, the species often grows in dense mats, capable of withstanding harsh Arctic conditions. They are a key food source for many grazing animals in the North. Its overall hardy nature makes it very tolerant of varying salinity levels found in tidal zones. Bering Chickweed is perfect for temperate gardens, bringing a special touch of the Arctic outdoors.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Bering Chickweed (Cerastium beeringianum) should be watered weekly during the summer with approximately 1 inch of water. Be sure not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. In the winter, watering should be reduced to about every 2-3 weeks with a light watering of a few tablespoons, as the plant will require much less water during these cooler months. Additionally, it's important to check the soil for moisture before adding more water, as heavy clay soils and wet areas with little air circulation can cause the plant to stay wet for longer periods of time.

sunlight

Bering Chickweed generally prefers full sun, meaning a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant is a hardy species, and can even tolerate some shade or partial sun. It needs plenty of light, however, for the flowers to bloom and for the plant to remain vigorous. To get the best blooms, provide 8 or more hours of direct sun, taking extra care to avoid excessive midday heat. Too much shade or too little sun can lead to thin, spindly stalks with few flowers.

pruning

For optimal growth, Bering Chickweed should be pruned in the springtime, before the new shoots begin to emerge. Prune back the existing stems or branches by up to a third of their original length. This encourages the plant to grow into a bushy shape. Additionally, it helps to remove any dead or damaged stems or branches that could put the plant’s health at risk. Pruning Bering Chickweed every spring is a great way to keep the plant looking neat and healthy.