Contents
Description
Turritis, commonly known as Tower Mustard, is a genus of flowering plants in the Brassicaceae family. It is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and is often found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet and has alternate, simple leaves with serrated edges. The flowers are small and white, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Turritis |
Appearance
The Turritis plant has a tall, slender stem that is covered in small, white flowers. The leaves are alternate and simple, with serrated edges. They are typically 2-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem, and are small and white. They bloom in the spring and early summer.
Care Guide
Turritis is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Turritis prefers moist soil, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Turritis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Turritis prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Turritis is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Turritis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but here are some to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can damage the plant by sucking sap from the leaves.
- Cabbage loopers: These caterpillars can eat the leaves of the plant.
- Cabbage root maggots: These maggots can damage the roots of the plant.
- Clubroot: This fungal disease can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Habitat
Turritis is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and is often found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Turritis an invasive plant?
A: No, Turritis is not considered an invasive plant.
Q: Does Turritis attract bees?
A: Yes, Turritis is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Turritis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Turritis can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the plant’s long taproot.
Q: Is Turritis toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Turritis is toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants they are not familiar with.
Related Plants
- Brassica nigra
- Brassica rapa
- Brassica juncea
- Brassica oleracea
References
- “Turritis.” Flora of North America. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=133469.
- “Turritis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280890&isprofile=0&.
- “Turritis.” The Plant List. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Brassicaceae/Turritis/.
