Descurainia pinnata

Descurainia pinnata, also known as tansy mustard or western tansy mustard, is a species of flowering plant in the mustard family (Brassicaceae). It is native to North America, where it is widespread and can be found in various habitats.

Description

Descurainia pinnata is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are pinnately divided, with narrow, pointed leaflets. The flowers are small, with four yellow petals. The fruit is a long, narrow capsule, which splits open when mature to release the small, round seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Descurainia pinnata is native to North America, where it is found from Alaska to Mexico, and from the Pacific Coast to the Great Plains. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and mountain slopes.

Uses

The seeds of Descurainia pinnata have been used by Native American tribes as a food source. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Cultivation

Descurainia pinnata is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil and drought conditions. It is often used in restoration projects, as it can help to stabilize eroding soils.

Conservation status

While Descurainia pinnata is not currently considered threatened or endangered, its habitat is being lost to development and agriculture, which could pose a threat to the species in the future.

See also

• List of Descurainia species
• Flora of North America