Stellaria holostea
greater stitchwort
A perennial that reaches around 50cm in height. Stems are brittle, leaves are grass-like and both are rough-edged and greyish-green. White flowers, with five deeply-notched petals, are borne in spring and early summer, followed by seed capsules that make a popping sound when ripe
Other common names
ag-flowerag-worm flower
see moreall-bone
break-bones
devil's corn
Easter bells
greater starwort
lady's lint
lady's white petticoat
Latin flower
little John
May grass
miller's star
snap Jack
snappers
snap-stalks
starflower
thunder flower
tongue grass
adder's meat
bird's tongue
devil's eye
moonflower
satin flower
snake flower
snake grass
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Stellaria can be annuals or herbaceous perennials, with slender stems bearing simple, opposite leaves and terminal cymes of white flowers with 5 deeply notched petals
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N. Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers moist, mildly acidic infertile soils. Occurs in woodland and hedgerows in semi-shaded sites
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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