Capsella

Description

Capsella is a genus of flowering plants in the mustard family (Brassicaceae) commonly known as Shepherd’s purse. It is a small annual or biennial herbaceous plant that is widely distributed in temperate regions of the world. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom from April to September and later develop into flat heart-shaped capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds. Capsella is commonly found in fields, meadows, and disturbed areas and is considered a weed by many.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Capsella has a rosette of basal leaves that are simple, lobed or toothed, and hairy. The stem grows up to 0.5m tall and has lance-shaped leaves that are alternate and clasping. The plant produces small white flowers that are about 2-3mm in diameter and have four petals. The flowers bloom from April to September and later develop into flat heart-shaped capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds. The capsules are about 1-2cm long and 0.5-1cm wide.

Care Guide

Capsella is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal attention.Water: Capsella requires moderate watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Capsella does not require fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring.Soil: Capsella prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Capsella prefers full sunlight but can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Capsella can grow in hardiness zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Capsella is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by some common pests and diseases such as aphids, flea beetles, and powdery mildew.Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant’s leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.Flea Beetles: Flea beetles are small black beetles that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap to the plant.Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and baking soda.

Habitat

Capsella is native to Europe and Asia but has become naturalized in many parts of the world. It is commonly found in fields, meadows, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and waste areas. Capsella prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Capsella poisonous?
A: Capsella is not toxic to humans or animals.Q: Can Capsella be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Capsella has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as bleeding, diarrhea, and menstrual disorders.Q: Can Capsella be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Capsella can be grown indoors in a sunny location.Q: Is Capsella an annual or perennial plant?
A: Capsella is an annual or biennial plant.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Brassicaceae family include:

• Arabidopsis thaliana
• Brassica oleracea
• Eruca sativa
• Raphanus sativus

References

• Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Capsella. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1157527
• Kew Science. (n.d.). Capsella. Retrieved from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60472247-2
• PFAF. (n.d.). Capsella bursa-pastoris. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Capsella+bursa-pastoris
• USDA. (n.d.). Capsella bursa-pastoris. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CABU2