Hoary Cress
Back to the main Dirty Dozen Invasive of the Southwest
|
 
|
Hoary Cress (Whitetop)
Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
Class A Weed
Description: A grayish green, minutely hairy, creeping perennial reaching heights of 0.5 to 2.0 feet. Stems are erect and greatly branching in the flowering portion of the plant. Basal leaves are stalked and broadly elliptical, while the stem leaves are two-lobed and clasp the stem. Flowers, which have four white petals, are borne at the top of the plant, hence the name "whitetop." The heartshaped seed pods are tipped by a slender, persistent beak. Hoary cress reproduces by seed and an extensive, deeply penetrating root system.
Origin: Europe
Key Characteristics:
- White, four-petaled flowers
- Clasping upper leaves
- Extensive root system
Distribution: Hoary cress has been found in several counties, from along highways to forest understory. These plants have been introduced into urban settings through its use as filler for dry flower arrangements.
|
