Thlaspi arvense

Thlaspi arvense, commonly known as Field Pennycress, is a flowering plant species in the family Brassicaceae. It is native to Eurasia but is known globally as an introduced species and often a noxious weed.

Description

Thlaspi arvense is an annual herb with a smooth stem growing 10 to 80 centimeters tall. The leaves are lance-shaped and are borne in a rosette at the base of the plant, with smaller leaves occurring up the stem. The flowers are borne in a dense raceme, and have four white petals. The fruit is a round, flat silique containing several seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Thlaspi arvense is native to Eurasia, but has been introduced to North America, where it is often found as a weed in fields, gardens, and disturbed sites. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of pH levels.

Uses

Despite its status as a weed, Thlaspi arvense has several uses. Its seeds have been used to produce oil, and it has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It is also a food source for several species of Lepidoptera.

Ecology

Thlaspi arvense is a host plant for several species of aphids, and is a food source for several species of Lepidoptera. It can also act as a reservoir for plant viruses.

See also

• List of Lepidoptera that feed on Thlaspi

References

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