Virginia Pepperweed

Scientific Name - Lepidium virginicum L.
Family - Cruciferae

Winter annual from rosette of leaves. Stems smooth, erect, and freely branched. Basal and stem leaves serrated, lobed or deeply notched. Basal leaves lacking on mature plants. Stem leaves reduced in size, more serrated and lobed toward the apex of the plant. Produces spike-like clusters of tiny white flowers at end of branches. Seedpod round, flat with notch at tip. Fruit with distinctive mustard taste. Reproduces by seed. Found throughout the United States except for Arizona and New Mexico. Also occurs in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.