_Stellaria media (Alsine media)_
_Flowers_--Small, white, on slender pedicels from leaf axils, also in
terminal clusters. Calyx (usually) of 5 sepals, much longer than the 5
(usually) 2-parted petals; 2-10 stamens; 3 or 4 styles. _Stem:_ Weak,
branched, tufted, leafy, 4 to 6 in. long, a hairy fringe on one side.
_Leaves:_ Opposite, actually oval, lower ones petioled, upper ones
seated on stem.
_Preferred Habitat_--Moist, shady soil; woods; meadows.
_Flowering Season_--Throughout the year.
_Distribution_--Almost universal.
The sole use man has discovered for this often pestiferous weed with
which nature carpets moist soil the world around is to feed caged
song-birds. What is the secret of the insignificant little plant’s
triumphal progress? Like most immigrants that have undergone ages of
selective struggle in the Old World, it successfully competes with our
native blossoms by readily adjusting itself to new conditions filling
places unoccupied, and chiefly by prolonging its season of bloom beyond
theirs, to get relief from the pressure of competition for insect trade
in the busy season. Except during the most cruel frosts, there is
scarcely a day in the year when we may not find the little star-like
chickweed flowers.