Broadleaf Weeds - Bermuda Lawn - Mouse-Ear Chickweed
BES-TEX Weed ID Guide · Broadleaf Weeds
Mouse-Ear Chickweed
Cerastium fontanum
Common Name
Mouse-ear Chickweed
Latin Name
Cerastium fontanum
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Life Cycle / Type
Winter annual or short-lived perennial · Broadleaf
What Is It?
Mouse-ear chickweed is a low-growing broadleaf weed with small, oval, gray-green leaves covered in fine hairs, giving it a soft, fuzzy appearance. It forms dense mats and is commonly found in thin turf, compacted soils, shaded areas, and cool, moist conditions. This weed can behave as both an annual and a short-lived perennial. Pre-emergent herbicides may reduce new seedlings but will not control existing plants.
Soil Temperature & Germination
Mouse-ear chickweed germinates during cool soil conditions.
Below 55°F
Germination begins
Cool winter soils
Continued establishment
Decision Question
Is the weed visible above the soil right now?
Why This Weed Comes Back
Missed fall pre-emergent timing
Compacted or shaded turf
Excess moisture and thin grass cover
Learn the Basics
A healthy, thick lawn is the best defense against weeds.
