- Wildlife
- Wildflowers
- Mouse-ear
northeastwildlife.co.uk
About
Common Mouse-ear is a kind of chickweed with tiny white flowers that is found in all kinds of habitats all over the UK, from gardens to grasslands, waste grounds to walls. It flowers from April to September and its thought that its seeds can last in the soil for up to 40 years. It is considered a weed of cereal crops.
How to identify
A low-growing, spreading plant, Common Mouse-ear has tiny, white, five-petalled flowers; its dark green leaves are covered with white hairs.
Where to find it
Widespread.
Habitats
When to find it
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Many of our so-called 'weeds' are beneficial to wildlife, providing food for nectar-loving insects and shelter for minibeasts. Try leaving wilder areas in your garden, such as patches of flowers in your lawn or Stinging Nettles near the compost heap, and see who comes to visit... To find out more about wildlife-friendly gardening, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.