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Mountain chickweed

Dichodon cerastoides · Caryophyllaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant mountain chickweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Family
Caryophyllaceae
Plant type
Alpine perennial herb
Adult size
10 to 20 cm in height
Flowering
June to August
Foliage
Deciduous
Hardiness
Very hardy (−20 °C and below)
Origin
Mountain regions of Europe
Soil type
Well-draining, rocky, low in organic matter

Care

Exposure

Place Dichodon cerastoides in a sunny or partially shaded spot. This alpine plant appreciates bright, well-ventilated locations. It tolerates mountain winds well.

Soil and drainage

Choose a very well-draining, rocky or gravelly soil, poor in fertility. Drainage is crucial to prevent root rot in winter. Adding gravel or coarse sand is beneficial.

Watering

Water moderately when planting and during extended dry periods. Once established, this alpine plant resists drought well and needs only occasional watering. Avoid excessive moisture, particularly in winter.

Pruning and cleaning

No pruning is strictly necessary. Simply remove dead or damaged parts in late winter. A light tidying of faded foliage is enough to maintain a neat appearance.

Fertilizer

This alpine plant needs no regular fertilizer. Poor soil matches its natural ecology. Light mineral mulch, rather than organic matter, is preferable.

Diseases and pests

Dichodon cerastoides is generally very robust. Stagnant moisture remains its main enemy and can promote rot. Ensure excellent drainage and good air circulation to avoid these issues.

Did you know?

Dichodon cerastoides, formerly classified as Cerastium cerastoides, is a small plant from the high alpine and arctic mountains. Its botanical name changes regularly according to taxonomic revisions, reflecting the complexity of modern phylogenetic studies on the Caryophyllaceae family. This tiny herb is among the pioneer plants that colonize moraines and rocky debris at altitude, playing a valuable ecological role in stabilizing unstable mountain terrain.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.