Contents
Description
Sisymbrium Orientale, also known as Oriental mustard, is an annual herb from the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia, but has spread to other parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 60 centimeters in height and has a branching stem with small leaves. The flowers are yellow and bloom in clusters. The plant produces a fruit known as a silique, which contains small brown seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Sisymbrium |
Appearance
Sisymbrium Orientale has a narrow, branching stem with small leaves that can be oval or lance-shaped. The leaves are usually green but can have a bluish tint. The flowers are small, yellow, and bloom in clusters. They have four petals and six stamens. The fruit is a silique that can grow up to six centimeters in length and contains small brown seeds. The plant has a pleasant fragrance and is often used in perfumes.
Care Guide
Water
Sisymbrium Orientale prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate drought but should be watered regularly during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Sisymbrium Orientale prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. It can tolerate poor soil, but will grow best in fertile soil.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Sisymbrium Orientale can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sisymbrium Orientale is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, and flea beetles. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew.
Habitat
Sisymbrium Orientale is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia. It can be found in open fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas. It has been introduced to other parts of the world and can now be found in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sisymbrium Orientale edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible and is sometimes used in salads and other dishes.
Q: Can Sisymbrium Orientale be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant prefers full sun and is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: Does Sisymbrium Orientale attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Q: Is Sisymbrium Orientale invasive?
A: The plant can be invasive in some areas and should be controlled if it becomes a problem.
Related Plants
- Sisymbrium altissimum
- Sisymbrium officinale
- Sisymbrium irio
References
- “Sisymbrium orientale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279546&isprofile=0>.
- “Sisymbrium orientale.” PlantNet. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://www.plantnet.org/public/PlantNet-Species-Dictionnary/54/>.
- “Sisymbrium orientale.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SIOR4>.
