SafePlants

Forked Chickweed (Cerastium dichotomum & Paronychia canadensis)

Forked chickweed refers to two distinct species of plants, each with its own unique characteristics and classification.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cerastium dichotomum L. and Paronychia canadensis (L.) Wood.
• Common Names: Forked Chickweed, Tall Forked Chickweed, Canadian Forked Chickweed, Mouse-ear Chickweed.
• Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink or Knotwort Family).
• Synonyms/Related Terms: Smooth Forked Nailwort, Low-forked Chickweed (for Paronychia fastigiata), Anychia dichotoma.
• USDA PLANTS Symbol: CEDI5 (for Cerastium dichotomum).

Distribution and Habitat

• Cerastium dichotomum is considered an exotic (non-native) species in the U.S.
• Paronychia canadensis is a wildflower native to New York State.
• Both species can be found in dry, open habitats, including dry sandy or rocky places and dry hills.
• Specific locations for Paronychia fastigiata and Paronychia canadensis specimens can be found in the ISM Herbarium (Illinois State Museum).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Forked chickweed is typically an annual forb (herbaceous flowering plant that is not a grass).
• Stems are often forked and branching, sometimes with a line of hairs.
• Leaves are narrowly elliptic or minute and very narrow, with small stipules.
• Flowers are greenish-white or pale green to brownish, minute, and often inconspicuous.
• Petals may be absent or not easily visible.
• The fruit is a 1-seeded, indehiscent capsule (does not open naturally to release seeds).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Flowers are in small, repeatedly forked terminal or axillary clusters (cymes).

Resources and Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on Paronychia fastigiata.
• Discover Life offers information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cerastium dichotomum.
• USDA PLANTS Database contains information on Cerastium dichotomum (CEDI5).
• ISM Herbarium (Illinois State Museum) provides distribution maps for Paronychia fastigiata and Paronychia canadensis.