Little Mouse-Ear

(Cerastium semidecandrum)

Little Mouse-Ear (Cerastium semidecandrum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 22" - 36"
High Temp. 68°F - 77°F
Low Temp. 25°F - 34°F

Summary

Cerastium semidecandrum, commonly known as Little Mouse-ear, is an annual herb native to a variety of habitats in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, including open fields, grasslands, and disturbed sites such as arable land, gardens, and roadsides. It is a low-growing plant, typically reaching 0.1-0.5 feet (0.03-0.2 meters) in both height and width, with a mat-forming habit. The plant features small, ovate leaves and bears white, star-shaped flowers with five notched petals and prominent stamens, blooming profusely in the spring and early summer. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite numerous, creating a delicate carpet of white.

Little Mouse-ear is appreciated for its ability to fill in bare spots in the garden and its ease of care. It is often used as a ground cover or in rock gardens due to its low stature and spreading nature. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it prefers medium or fast-draining soils, including clay, loam, or sandy types. Gardeners should be aware that Cerastium semidecandrum can self-seed and spread, potentially becoming invasive in some regions. It is advisable to check local guidelines before planting to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.1-0.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open fields, grasslands, and disturbed sites such as arable land, gardens, and roadsides

Other Names

Common Names: Little Mouse-ear, Lesser Mouse-ear Chickweed, Five-Stamen Mouse-Ear Chickweed

Scientific Names: Cerastium semidecandrum, ? abortivum, Alsine pellucida, Centunculus semidecandrus, Cerastium anomalum, Cerastium arenarium, Cerastium balearicum, Cerastium breviflorum, Cerastium dentatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Cerastium semidecandrum