Field peppergrass (Lepidium campestre)

Field peppergrass

Also known as: Field pepperweed, Pepperwort, Field pepper

Field peppergrass (*Lepidium campestre*) is a member of the mustard family. It’s indigenous to southern Russia and is now found throughout North America. Field peppergrass is edible, and the seeds are used as a spice. Field peppergrass tastes like a pungent combination of black pepper and mustard.

Scientific classification

Species

Field peppergrass (Lepidium campestre)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Late winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

0.2 mm to 0.7 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Field peppergrass

Distribution of Field peppergrass

Distribution Map

Field peppergrass, a plant species with a primary presence in temperate regions of Europe, is native to a wide swath of the continent. It has naturally extended to areas of Western Asia and Scandinavia. Field peppergrass has been introduced and is found flourishing in numerous locales, notably across Eastern Asia, select parts of the African continent, the North Atlantic islands, and in isolated pockets of Oceania. The plant has adapted to varied environments beyond its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry pastures, walls, banks, waysides, arable and waste land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Weed Control

Field peppergrass is native to Eurasia and has become distributed throughout North America. It is listed as invasive by at least three states within the United States. It readily establishes within disturbed habitats, including fields. It is a prolific seed producer and is tolerant of a variety of conditions. A cause for concern is that these qualities allow it to form dense colonies that crowd out native plants. Herbicides can be used to control undesired populations of field peppergrass. Grazing or mowing in the spring can be used preceding herbicide application to increase the effectiveness of control.

How to Control It

The best time for the removal of field peppergrass is during its vegetative growth stage which occurs in the Spring to early Summer before it gets a chance to flower and produce seeds. Here are some options for controlling field peppergrass:

Hand Pulling: This is the simplest method and most feasible for small infestations. Be sure to pull the entire root system out, as any remnants can re-sprout.
Tilling: A tiller can be an effective way to control field peppergrass in larger areas. Tilling the soil disrupts the field peppergrass root system and buries the plant material, preventing it from re-sprouting.
Smothering: This method involves covering the area with a thick layer of mulch or a weed control fabric which blocks out sunlight and prevents the plant from growing.
Organic Herbicides: Organic herbicides based on acetic acid or other non-toxic materials can be used to spray on the field peppergrass. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application rates and timing.
Biological Control: If field peppergrass has become a widespread problem in your area, you might consider involving local agricultural or environmental agencies who might have resources for biological control agents such as specific insects or fungus that target field peppergrass.

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Care Guide for Field peppergrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Field peppergrass originates from temperate regions and thrives in moderate moisture. It prefers consistent soil moisture, requiring weekly watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Typically grown outdoors, field peppergrass is hardy and benefits from adequate hydration, leading to robust flowering and seed production.

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Images of Field peppergrass

Distribution of Field peppergrass

Weed Control

Care Guide for Field peppergrass

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