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Common Chickweed

Cerastium fontanum

Least Concern

About

<em>Cerastium fontanum</em>, commonly known as common chickweed, is a plant species found across Africa, Europe, and the Americas. It typically thrives in tropical and subtropical forest environments, as well as in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, gardens, lawns, and cultivated fields across a broad climatic range. The species is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, reflecting its cosmopolitan distribution and stable population status. Common chickweed belongs to the genus <em>Cerastium</em> within the family Caryophyllaceae. It is a low-growing, mat-forming herbaceous plant that typically produces small white flowers with deeply notched petals and is often found in moist, disturbed soils where it can establish rapidly. The species is a common garden weed in many parts of the world and is known for its ability to colonize a wide variety of substrates and environmental conditions. Biological traits such as average lifespan, plant height, and mass of this species remain poorly documented in the scientific literature. Its widespread occurrence and weedy habit contribute to its globally secure conservation status.

Habitat & Distribution

Inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests and tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forests within the Neotropic biogeographic realm.

Widely distributed across Africa (South Africa), Europe (5 countries), North America (Canada, Jamaica, United States), and South America (4 countries).

Conservation Status

LC Least Concern

Full Taxonomy

Names in Other Languages

French céraiste commun
German Quellen-Hornkraut

Similar Species in Cerastium

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of Common Chickweed?
The scientific name of Common Chickweed is Cerastium fontanum. It belongs to the genus Cerastium.
What is the conservation status of Common Chickweed?
Common Chickweed (Cerastium fontanum) is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
Where does Common Chickweed live?
Common Chickweed is found in Widely distributed across Africa (South Africa), Europe (5 countries), North America (Canada, Jamaica, United States), and South America (4 countries).. Countries include Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Ecuador, Jamaica, Norway, Portugal.
What family does Common Chickweed belong to?
Common Chickweed (Cerastium fontanum) belongs to the genus Cerastium, which is part of the taxonomic family Caryophyllaceae.
Is Common Chickweed endangered?
No, Common Chickweed (Cerastium fontanum) is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, meaning it is not currently at significant risk of extinction.
What kingdom does Common Chickweed belong to?
Common Chickweed (Cerastium fontanum) belongs to the kingdom Plantae (Plants).
What are the closest relatives of Common Chickweed?
The closest relatives of Common Chickweed in the genus Cerastium include Alpine Chickweed, Arctic Mouse-Ear, Bering mouse-ear chickweed, Big Chickweed, European chickweed.

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