Whitetop - Lepidium draba (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Whitetop

Also known as: Hoary cress, Heart-podded pepperweed

Whitetop (Lepidium draba) is a flowering plant species native to Eurasia. Whitetop is considered an invasive species in most regions. Whitetop grows rapidly through underground rhizomes.

Scientific classification

Species

Whitetop (Lepidium draba)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Harvest Time

20 cm to 51 cm

Plant Height

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Whitetop

Distribution of Whitetop

Distribution Map

Whitetop is a plant with a cosmopolitan distribution. Its native range spans significant parts of Eurasia. Over time, whitetop has been introduced to various regions across continents and is now present in the Americas, parts of Europe, and Oceania. In certain areas where whitetop has been introduced, it may be potentially competitive with local flora and is sometimes thought to be problematic. However, it should be noted that whitetop's actual impact on ecosystems varies and may depend on specific local conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Arable fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Whitetop is considered a noxious, persistent weed, capable of thriving almost on any terrain, especially if it is modified like gardens and agricultural lands. Although the mopey white flower clusters can look good when choosing whether to keep this plant in your garden or not, keep in mind that it is tough to eradicate once established.

Symbolism

Expansive, adaptative, erect

Interesting Facts

A weed in cultivated crops and pastures, the whitetop has a benign appearance that hides its detrimental nature. A perennial that is passed up by livestock and other grazing animals, it is often difficult to get rid of. The roots of the plant release chemicals that hinder the growth of certain grains and harbor pests that spread to crops.

Name Story

Whitetop: The plant is native to western Asia and southeastern Europe but it is considered as an invasive species in North America. It is introduced by contaminated seeds in the early 1900s. As white flowers sprout from the top of the stems, it is called whitetop.

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Weed Control

Whitetop is a perennial herbaceous plant with large, white inflorescence. It is widely listed as an invasive species and considered a weed of crops.

How to Control It

The best time to remove whitetop is in the early spring or fall. It's important to remove this weed prior to it flowering and setting seed to prevent further spread.

Hand-pulling: Wet the soil around the whitetop to make it softer. Then, wearing gloves, firmly grasp the base of the weed and pull upwards to remove it from the ground. Make sure that you remove the entire root system to prevent the plant from regrowing.
Mowing: Regular mowing can help control the spread of whitetop. Keep the lawn mowed to a height of 3 inches. Mow consistently before the plant has a chance to flower and produce seeds. Repeated mowing can help to weaken the plants over time.
Mulching: Spread a layer of organic material like wood chips or straw around the area to suppress whitetop growth. The mulch should be about 2-3 inches thick. This method is most effective if you remove as much of the whitetop as possible first, then apply the mulch to prevent new growth.
Solarization: Clear the area of plants and water it thoroughly. Then, cover the area with a clear plastic tarp. Secure the edges of the tarp with rocks, soil, or other heavy objects. Leave the tarp in place for 4-6 weeks during a hot part of the year. The sun will heat the soil to temperatures that kill whitetop.
Cultivation: Use a hoe or similar tool to cut whitetop off at its roots. This interrupts the weed's lifecycle, preventing it from spreading. Repeat the process every few weeks as new growth appears.

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Care Guide for Whitetop

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Whitetop thrives in consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering to mimic natural conditions. It tolerates brief dry spells, balancing drought resistance with hydration needs. As an outdoor plant in temperate regions, it has adapted to seasonal rainfall patterns that influence its growth cycles.

Propagation: Whitetop can be easily propagated by sowing seeds in Spring. Successful signs include seedlings and robust root systems. Maintaining proper soil moisture is crucial for optimal growth.

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Images of Whitetop

Distribution of Whitetop

Culture

Weed Control

Care Guide for Whitetop

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