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Description
Sisymbrium Loeselii, commonly known as Loesel’s mustard, is a biennial or perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and has been introduced to North America as an invasive species. It can grow up to 100 cm tall and has a taproot that can extend up to 60 cm deep. It produces yellow flowers in clusters that bloom from May to August. The plant has a pungent odor and taste and is often used in herbal medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Sisymbrium |
Appearance
Sisymbrium Loeselii has a rosette of basal leaves that are long and narrow, while the stem leaves are alternate and lanceolate with a toothed margin. The stem is erect, branching, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small, yellow, and four-petaled, arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a slender, cylindrical pod that contains numerous small, round, black seeds.
Care Guide
Sisymbrium Loeselii prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It requires full sun to grow and should be watered regularly but not over-watered. Fertilization should be done in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sisymbrium Loeselii is susceptible to aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage loopers. It is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. Proper cultivation practices and regular inspection can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Sisymbrium Loeselii thrives in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste places. It can also be found in open woods and along streams. It is considered an invasive species in North America and can outcompete native plant species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sisymbrium Loeselii edible?
A: Yes, the young leaves and shoots are edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a vegetable.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Sisymbrium Loeselii?
A: The plant has been traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments, digestive problems, and skin conditions.
Q: How do I control the spread of Sisymbrium Loeselii?
A: The plant should be removed by hand or with herbicides before it produces seeds. Proper disposal of the plant material is also important to prevent further spread.
Q: Can Sisymbrium Loeselii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the taproot.
Related Plants
- Sisymbrium altissimum
- Sisymbrium irio
- Sisymbrium officinale
- Sisymbrium orientale
References
- USDA Plants Database: Sisymbrium loeselii
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Sisymbrium loeselii
- Virginia Tech Weed Identification Guide: Sisymbrium loeselii
