Weed of the month submitted by Larry Walker
Elongated Mustard
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Elongated Mustard (Brassica elongata) is a biennial plant native to Eastern Europe. It is widespread in some counties of Colorado; yet, fortunately, not reported in others. It's also known as Long-staked Rape.
Many western species in the mustard family bear similar fruit and flowers, but the lance-shaped leaves of the Elongated Mustard differentiate it from other species. Distinguishing characteristics include-- * Yellow flowers with four petals and six stamens * Blooms from June through July * Fruits are "siliques" that can be 1.5 inches long with a stalk- like base and a seedless, narrow beak. * Basal leaves are lance-shaped and weakly lobed, while stem leaves are much smaller and do not clasp the stem * Can grow up to 3 feet tall * Reproduces by seed in late summer or early fall; cold temperatures restrict germination and the spread of its invasion |
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