Bellybutton weed
stellaria alsine
Also known as: ["Starwort","Star chickweed"]
Overview
A small, delicate annual herb with tiny white star-shaped flowers and opposite leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Stellaria |
| Botanical Name: | Stellaria alsine |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 5–7 days
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil doesn't compact; avoid heavy clay mixes; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out compacted roots; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStellaria alsine is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though large quantities may cause mild digestive upset due to its saponin content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicStellaria alsine is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though large quantities may cause mild digestive upset due to its saponin content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicStellaria alsine, commonly known as star chickweed, is generally considered non-toxic but can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in large amounts. The plant contains saponins, which may have a mild laxative effect.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Stellaria alsine edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems are edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a potherb.
Q: How does Stellaria alsine spread?
A: It spreads primarily by seeds, which are dispersed by wind or water.
Q: Is Stellaria alsine invasive?
A: It can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid seed production and ability to colonize disturbed areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days |
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