Wild radish

Wild Radish (Raphanus raphanistrum) is a flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. It is also known as jointed charlock, runch, white charlock, and wild kale. Native to Asia, it has spread worldwide and is considered an invasive species in many regions.

Description

Wild radish is an annual or biennial plant, growing up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are pinnately lobed with a large terminal lobe and smaller lateral lobes. The flowers are white, yellow, pink or purple, and the fruit is a pod containing multiple seeds.

Distribution and Habitat

Wild radish is native to western Asia and southeastern Europe but has naturalized throughout the world. It is commonly found in disturbed areas, including fields, roadsides, and waste places.

Ecology

Wild radish is a host plant for several species of Lepidoptera, including the small white butterfly (Pieris rapae). It is also a host for several plant pathogens, including the fungus Albugo candida and the oomycete Hyaloperonospora parasitica.

Uses

While often considered a weed, wild radish has been used as a food source in many cultures. The leaves, flowers, pods, and seeds are all edible. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine for its purported diuretic and expectorant properties.

Control

Control of wild radish can be challenging due to its prolific seed production and ability to survive in a wide range of conditions. Methods of control include hand-pulling, mowing, and the use of herbicides.

See Also

• Raphanus
• Brassicaceae
• Invasive species

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