Greater Stitchwort
Stellaria holostea
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Description
Greater Stitchwort (Stellaria holostea) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and western Asia, thriving in temperate regions. It is typically found in woodland edges, hedgerows, and grasslands, where it plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity. As a ground cover plant, it occupies the herbaceous layer in a food forest, providing habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its slender stems can reach up to 0.6 meters, adorned with narrow, lanceolate leaves and distinctive star-like white flowers with deeply notched petals. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. In agroecology, Greater Stitchwort is valued for its ability to enhance ecosystem resilience and support beneficial insect populations.
Growing Details
Greater Stitchwort thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils with a preference for slightly alkaline conditions. It benefits from a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include other woodland edge species like primroses and violets. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest young shoots in early spring for best flavor. Store harvested shoots in a cool, dry place and use within a few days.
Tags
Hedge
Attracts Wildlife
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Stellaria holostea</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and western Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of April for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The young leaves and shoots of Greater Stitchwort can be consumed raw or cooked, though they are not widely regarded as a significant food source. They are best harvested in spring when they are tender. Caution is advised as they are not a staple food and should be consumed in moderation.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Greater Stitchwort has been used in herbal medicine for its mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been applied in poultices for skin irritations and minor wounds. The plant should be used with caution, as its medicinal properties are mild and not well-documented in modern herbalism.
health concerns: Consumption should be moderate due to limited nutritional value and potential for mild digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.
other uses: Greater Stitchwort can be used in natural landscaping to enhance biodiversity and provide aesthetic appeal with its delicate flowers.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Stellaria holostea
common names: Greater Stitchwort; Addersmeat; Satin Flower
family: Caryophyllaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Stellaria
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 90 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Greater Stitchwort thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils with a preference for slightly alkaline conditions. It benefits from a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include other woodland edge species like primroses and violets. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest young shoots in early spring for best flavor. Store harvested shoots in a cool, dry place and use within a few days.
Potential Disturbances: Greater Stitchwort is generally pest-free but can occasionally be affected by slugs and snails. Encourage natural predators like hedgehogs and birds, and use barriers such as crushed eggshells or copper tape to deter these pests.
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