Etymology: Stellaria: from the Latin stella for "star" because of the star-like shape of the flowers or some other feature
Plants: erect to weak, perennial, 12"-20" tall forb; 4 -angled stems usually smooth
Leaves: opposite, linear with smooth edges
Flowers: white, 5-parted, 1/4"-1/2" wide, stalked, petals deeply-lobed about 2/3 of the length and mostly equal to or shorter than the 3-veined sepals; inflorescence a many-flowered, branched cluster; blooms May-July
Fruits: oval to oblong capsule
Habitat: full sun; fields, roadsides
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Wetland Indicator = UPL USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key