common chickweed (Stellaria pallida)

Appearance

Stellaria pallida is an annual, low-growing herb native to Europe. Stems are decumbent, to 19.7 in. (50 cm) long with a longitudinal line of hairs.

Foliage

Leaves are opposite, oval, to 0.8 in. (2 cm) long and pointed at the tip. Older leaves are petiolate.

Flowers

Flowering occurs in early spring and petals are usually absent. Flowers develop in the leaf axils or in terminal clusters.

Fruit

Fruits are very small and are covered by extremely hairy calyces.

Ecological Threat

Stellaria pallida occurs in shady, moist locations and can commonly threaten habitats on rocky seeps.