Great Chickweed

Cerastium maximum

Native to:
Canada, China, Russia, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Caryophyllaceae
Genus:
Cerastium
Species:
Cerastium maximum
USDA Symbol:
CEMA5

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
45 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug
Bloom Colors:
white

Garden & Ecology Notes

Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers open, sunny habitats

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–28 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and do not cover.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

Pre-treatment: Single-step cold-moist stratification for temperate woodland species. for 60–120 days

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society