Each plant can spread over an area about 50 cm. in diameter. The leaves are small, rounded and pointed at the tip. Leaves are found in pairs, opposite each other on the stems. Side shoots are common at the base of most leaves, giving the plant a matted appearance. The flowers are small, white and fairly inconspicuous.
Flowers can occur from early spring up to killing frost, producing many seeds annually.
Common chickweed spreads well partly because it tolerates partial shade, and in fact prefers cool, moist and shaded areas. It can often be found growing in the shade of vegetables and ornamentals. Any area left open and exposed is susceptible to invasion, even if it is sunny and drier. This mixture is commonly sold under the trade names Killex and Trimex. Applied in the fall, this herbicide mixture is very effective in controlling the winter annual rosettes, and is preferred by most homeowners.