Spring greens

Chickweed

Stellaria media

Chickweed brings a quiet tenderness to bare spring ground and a close look rewards careful identification.

Season Window

01 Mar – 31 May

Gardens, disturbed soil, field margins and shaded paths

Harvest

How we meet this plant

Take small amounts of clean young growth from plentiful patches, leaving roots and habitat intact.

Preparation

Young leaves are traditionally used as a fresh green or in simple topical preparations.

Community Use

A gentle observation plant for comparing stems, leaves and flower structure.

Safety

Identify carefully; several small white-flowered plants look similar. Avoid contaminated ground and seek advice before medicinal use.