Stellaria media

Scientific profile

Stellaria media is a non-woody, broad-leaved annual in the pink family (Caryophyllaceae). Typically 15 cm tall, it has leaves with an average area of about 260 mm². The tiny, star-like white flowers appear in any month, so the plant can be found in bloom during every season. Its diaspores are very light, averaging 0.37 mg, which aids dispersal. Ecologically, it grows best in full sun (light value 7) with moderately warm temperatures (value 6) and requires fresh to moderately moist, nutrient-rich soil. It shows a preference for calcareous or basic conditions (pH reaction value 7). Native to Great Britain and widely distributed across Europe, Northern Europe, Asia-Temperate and Northern America, it is a common component of disturbed and fertile habitats. Under the German Red List scheme it is rated as '*', meaning it is not considered threatened.