Mouse-ear Chickweed
cerastium cerastoides
Also known as: ["Alpine Chickweed","Mountain Chickweed"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb native to alpine and subalpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Cerastium |
| Botanical Name: | Cerastium cerastoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure fast drainage; avoid waterlogging; enrich with organic matter for better growth.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; ideal range 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant 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; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors
Checklist
Use clean tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape as needed, avoid over-pruning
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; susceptible to frost damage in winter.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid sudden temperature drops; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold pockets.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, fertilize during growing season, avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCerastium cerastoides can cause mild gastrointestinal issues in cats if ingested. While not highly toxic, it is advisable to prevent cats from consuming the plant to avoid potential discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cerastium cerastoides can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCerastium cerastoides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cerastium cerastoides suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils typical of alpine environments.
Q: Does this plant require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its small, white flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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