Contents
Description
Brassicaceae, also known as the mustard family, is a diverse group of flowering plants that includes over 4,000 species. This family is widely distributed across the world, and it encompasses a wide range of plants, including annuals, biennials, and perennials. The family includes many important food crops, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as well as popular ornamental plants like wallflowers and stocks.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Brassica
Appearance
Brassicaceae plants come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The leaves are usually alternate and have a simple or pinnate shape. The flowers are typically four-petaled and arranged in clusters. The fruit is a pod, which is divided into two compartments and contains several small seeds. The color of the flowers and leaves varies depending on the species, but they are usually green, yellow, or white.
Care Guide
Water: Most Brassicaceae plants prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the soil type.
Fertilization: Brassicaceae plants benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season and reduce the amount in the fall and winter.
Soil: These plants grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: Brassicaceae plants require full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: These plants can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones, from zone 2 to zone 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Brassicaceae plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, flea beetles, cabbage worms, and downy mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plants healthy and well-fed. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests, and remove infected plant parts to prevent the spread of diseases.
Habitat
Brassicaceae plants are found in a wide range of habitats, from arctic tundra to tropical rainforests. Some species grow in open fields and meadows, while others prefer wetlands, rocky slopes, or coastal cliffs. Many Brassicaceae plants are adapted to cold and dry environments, and they can tolerate extreme temperatures and low moisture levels.
Question and Answer
Q: What are some common food crops in the Brassicaceae family?
A: Some common food crops in this family include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and radishes.
Q: What is the typical flower arrangement in Brassicaceae plants?
A: The flowers are typically four-petaled and arranged in clusters.
Q: What is the preferred soil pH for Brassicaceae plants?
A: The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Brassicaceae plants?
A: Some common pests and diseases include aphids, flea beetles, cabbage worms, and downy mildew.
Related Plants
- Arabidopsis thaliana
- Cardamine pratensis
- Capsella bursa-pastoris
- Hesperis matronalis
- Iberis sempervirens
References
- Brassicaceae. (2021). In Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Brassicaceae
- Brassicaceae. (2021). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brassicaceae
- Brassicaceae. (2021). In Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderListResults.aspx?parentTaxID=282
