Field pennycress has many distinct uses. Although it is not normally suitable for human consumption due to its bitter taste, the plant is used as fodder for livestock. In addition, the oil from field pennycress has been found to be a highly suitable renewable source for biodiesel and jet fuel.
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Toxic to Human & Pets
Toxicity
Weeds
Weed or not
Annual
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Winter
Harvest Time
15 cm to 61 cm
Plant Height
30 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2.5 cm
Flower Size
Brown
Fruit Color
White
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Rapid
Growth Rate
On This Page
Images
Distribution
Weed Control
Quickly Identify
Care Guide
FAQs
Images of Field pennycress
Distribution of Field pennycress
Distribution Map
Field pennycress is native to Eurasia and was introduced to the Americas, Australia and some countries in Africa. There, it can be found in cultivated and disturbed areas. It is considered invasive in Alaska and a noxious weed in Michigan but has been used as fodder for livestock throughout its native region.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Waste places, cultivated ground
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Weed Control
Field pennycress is a common weed that occurs throughout North America, primarily in cultivated areas or meadows and gardens. It is a weed that impacts agricultural crops, but is considered a crop itself for some farmers. It is an invasive species by law in Michigan, and on the invasive species list in Alaska. The weed can be controlled mechanically with plowing or with herbicides. It is best handled in gardens by hand pulling before it goes to flower and seeds are distributed. The seeds are poisonous to animals, tainting the milk of cows and the meat from animals that have eaten it.
How to Control It
The best season for the removal of field pennycress is early spring, just before the plant begins its flowering stage. Controlling field pennycress at this stage will prevent it from spreading its seeds, which can multiply the problem.
Hand Pulling: Locate the field pennycress in your garden. Wear a pair of durable gloves and grasp the plant firmly at its base. With a steady pull, remove the plant making sure to uproot the entire root system. Dispose of the plant in a manner compliant with local guidelines.
Smothering: If there's a large infestation, the most practical way to eliminate field pennycress may be smothering. Lay down a thick layer of newspaper over the affected area, and then cover it with a 3 to 4-inch layer of organic mulch. The mulch should prevent sunlight from reaching field pennycress, which will stunt its growth and eventually kill it.
Solarization: Prepare the soil by watering the area slightly. Afterwards, cover the infected area with a clear plastic tarp. Make sure the plastic is secure and there are no holes or tears. The sun will heat the soil under the plastic, essentially cooking the field pennycress and its seeds.
Vinegar Spray: Mix a solution of 10% vinegar to 90% water. Spray this mixture directly onto field pennycress, making sure to avoid any other plants. The vinegar will kill field pennycress, however, repeat applications may be necessary for complete control.
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Quickly Identify Field pennycress
1
Basal rosette of oblanceolate leaves with wavy margins and rounded tips.
2
Distinctive flat oval fruit pod with a prominent notch at the tip.
3
Ribbed stem with a winged appearance, growing 1-2 feet tall.
4
Tiny white flowers in dense clusters, each 1/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter.
5
Flattened, round seed pods with a notch at the top, containing black seeds.
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Water:
Field pennycress thrives in areas with moderate rainfall and requires weekly watering for optimal health. As a deciduous plant, it sheds its leaves during dry periods to conserve water, showcasing its adaptation to variable water availability.
Propagation:
Field pennycress is easily propagated by sowing seeds in spring, requiring no special skills. Successful propagation is indicated by germination and healthy seedlings. Proper soil preparation and moisture are essential for optimal results.
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