Cerastium fontanum Baumg.

Vegetative Growth Form

Cerastium fontanum Baumg. is a low-growing species covered in small, non-sticky hairs that lack glandular tips.

Stem and Leaf Characteristics

It produces erect flowering stems that can grow up to 45 cm (18 in) long, with opposite stalkless leaves that reach up to 20 mm (0.79 in) in length. It also has prostrate, non-flowering branches.

Petal Morphology

Its petals are either shorter than the sepals or slightly longer, and are deeply divided.

Flower Reproductive Parts

Each flower holds 10 stamens and 5 styles.

Common Habitats

This species is commonly found in grasslands and alongside roadsides.

Native Distribution

It is native to Europe, Greenland, the Himalayas, and Japan, and is widespread throughout Great Britain and Ireland.

Introduced Distribution

It has been introduced to the Falkland Islands, MacQuarie Island, and many other regions across the globe, including all 50 United States and all Canadian provinces and territories except Nunavut.