| Common Name : | Greater stitchwort. |
| Binomial Name : | Stellaria holostea |
| Family : | Caryophyllaceae |
| Photo Taken : | Ireland |
Botanical Identity
Stellaria holostea, commonly known as greater stitchwort, is a delicate perennial herb in the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is often found growing in woodlands, hedgerows, and grassy banks. The plant’s name “Stellaria” refers to the star-like appearance of its flowers, while “holostea” alludes to its brittle stems. Greater stitchwort blooms are a welcome sight in spring, symbolizing the change of seasons in many rural landscapes.
Plant Description
Greater stitchwort typically reaches heights of 30 to 60 centimeters and has long, slender stems that are fragile and prone to snapping. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. It prefers light shade to full sun and thrives in well-drained, loamy soils. Although delicate in appearance, the plant is hardy and forms attractive clumps in naturalistic garden settings.
Flowers and Fruit Characteristics
The flowers of Stellaria holostea are small but striking, usually white with five deeply notched petals that give the impression of ten. These star-shaped blossoms appear from April to June and are pollinated by bees and flies. Once pollinated, the flowers produce slender seed capsules that release small brown seeds. The plant self-seeds easily and spreads modestly across suitable habitats.
Uses and Cultural Significance
Traditionally, Stellaria holostea was believed to ease side pains or "stitches," which is reflected in its common name. Though not widely used in modern herbalism, it holds cultural value in folklore and poetry, where it often represents purity or the quiet beauty of springtime woodlands. Its aesthetic appeal makes it a valued addition to wildflower gardens and biodiversity-focused planting schemes.
Photos of this Greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea) were taken from the following locations:
1) April 2016: Bray, Ireland. It was during the Bray cliff walk.
Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com
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