Stellaria jamesiana
Stellaria jamesiana
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Pl. E404 — Stellaria jamesiana
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IOverview
Overview
Stellaria jamesiana, commonly known as the western starwort, is a perennial forb or herb found in the wild across much of the western United States, from Arizona and California to Montana and Wyoming. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade and can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Native to areas such as Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, it is also cultivated for its edible leaves and roots. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow up to 0.5 meters in height, making it a notable addition to gardens or natural landscapes where its light requirements and moisture preferences are met.
Quick answers
What is Stellaria jamesiana?
Stellaria jamesiana, commonly known as the western starwort, is a perennial forb or herb found in the wild across much of the western United States, from Arizona and California to Montana and Wyoming.
What is Stellaria jamesiana used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Stellaria jamesiana
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Stellaria species, including Stellaria jamesiana, have been traditionally used in Native American medicine for digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion. A decoction of the leaves or roots may help soothe an upset stomach.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves compounds that reduce inflammation and promote gut motility.
- Stellaria species have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support the immune system. A tea made from Stellaria jamesiana may help bolster the body's defenses against common illnesses.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but may involve antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that enhance immune function.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stellaria jamesiana support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Stellaria jamesiana thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-9 and can grow up to 0.5 meters tall as a perennial forb/herb. For best results, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through seeds or division of established plants. The edible parts include leaves and roots, making this plant both useful for culinary purposes and an attractive addition to gardens in temperate regions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Stellaria jamesiana for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance perennial that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Stellaria jamesiana seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Stellaria jamesiana in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial sun. Prepare soil that is well-draining, either in the ground or a pot with good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep and about 10 cm apart. Transplant young plants into prepared soil, spacing them 30-45 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the newly planted Stellaria jamesiana regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells, especially in full sun. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back the plant after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to mulch, and not providing enough light.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The leaves and roots of Stellaria jamesiana are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are typically dug up and boiled before consumption. Skip the preparation details for brevity.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 12 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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