Chickweed

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a small, annual flowering plant native to Europe but now widespread globally. It's characterized by small, oval leaves, delicate white flowers with deeply divided petals (appearing as ten), and a sprawling growth habit, often forming dense mats. It thrives in disturbed ground, gardens, and lawns, and is considered a common weed. Its rapid growth and prolific seed production contribute to its persistence. While primarily known as a nuisance plant, chickweed is edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a potherb; it also possesses some traditional medicinal uses.

Chickweed meaning with examples

• The neglected garden was quickly overtaken by chickweed, its tiny white flowers creating a delicate, yet persistent, presence amidst the vegetables. Weeding became an essential task. Removing the chickweed helped ensure that the garden was weed-free, leaving room for the cultivated plants. This invasive plant has now become a nuisance.
• I noticed the rapid spread of chickweed throughout my lawn, its dense mats smothering the grass in certain areas. I have to mow more regularly due to the chickweed growth. The gardener warned me that the seeds in the chickweed could easily re-establish the weeds.
• Grandma used to gather chickweed from the field to make a nutritious salad, claiming its delicate leaves were a healthy addition to the diet. She has always valued natural ingredients, especially the chickweed. It served her as a source of several nutrients.
• In the old days, chickweed was sometimes employed in traditional remedies for skin irritations, its soothing properties providing relief from minor ailments. I would use chickweed and aloe for the skin. The chickweed helped with skin relief.