Lepidium Densiflorum

Description

Lepidium Densiflorum, commonly known as spreading pepperweed, is a member of the Brassicaceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats such as sagebrush, grasslands, and disturbed areas. The plant typically grows up to 60 cm tall and can spread up to 90 cm wide. It has small white or pink flowers that bloom from May to August and produces small seeds that can disperse up to several meters away from the parent plant.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Brassicales
Family	Brassicaceae
Genus	Lepidium

Appearance

Spreading pepperweed has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has a branched stem with small, narrow leaves that are bluish-green in color. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that are clustered together in dense terminal spikes. The flowers bloom from May to August and are followed by small, round fruit capsules that contain tiny black seeds. The seeds can be easily dispersed by wind or water.

Care Guide

Spreading pepperweed is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Spreading pepperweed is drought tolerant and can survive on little water. However, it will grow best if it receives regular watering.
• Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer if desired.
• Soil: Spreading pepperweed prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Spreading pepperweed is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Spreading pepperweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by the following:

• Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. They can be controlled by using insecticidal soap.
• Cabbage loopers: These caterpillars can eat the leaves of the plant, causing it to become defoliated. They can be controlled by using Bacillus thuringiensis.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by using a fungicide.

Habitat

Spreading pepperweed is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including sagebrush, grasslands, and disturbed areas. It is a common weed in agricultural fields and can also be found along roadsides and in other disturbed areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is spreading pepperweed edible?
A: Yes, the young leaves of spreading pepperweed are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. However, the plant should be harvested in moderation as it can contain high levels of nitrates.

Q: Can spreading pepperweed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, spreading pepperweed can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: Does spreading pepperweed attract pollinators?
A: Yes, spreading pepperweed is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Q: How can I control spreading pepperweed in my garden?
A: Spreading pepperweed can be controlled by hand-pulling or by using a herbicide. However, it is important to be careful when using herbicides as they can also harm other plants.

Related Plants

• Lepidium campestre
• Lepidium latifolium
• Lepidium perfoliatum
• Lepidium sativum

References

• Bailey, L.H. (1918). Manual of Gardening. New York: Macmillan Publishers.
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Lepidium densiflorum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=LEDE5
• Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board. (n.d.). Spreading pepperweed. Retrieved from https://www.nwcb.wa.gov/weeds/spreading-pepperweed