Brassicaceae
Brassicaceae is a family of eudicots. It is commonly referred to as the mustard family, but it includes various genera and plants such as mustards, alyssum, cabbages, and shepherd’s purse.
Identifying Characteristics
Category | Characteristic |
---|---|
Clade | Eudicot |
Floral Formula | *, 4, 4, 4+2, 2^, Silique or Silicle |
Woody? | Herbaceous (No; Most) Shrubby (Yes; Some) |
Leaves | Attachment: Alternate Subdivision: Simple Position: Cauline and Basal |
Flowers | Shape: Maltese cross Symmetry: Radial Growth: Bisexual |
Petals | Shape: Clawed |
Ovary | Superior |
Inflorescence | Racemic Racemes with branches |
Numbers | Sepals: 4 Petals: 4 Stamens: 6 Pistils: 1 - Carpels: 2, Fused |
Fruits | Silique or silicle Mostly dehiscent; some are indehiscent |
Distinguishing Genera
Genera | Flower Characteristics |
---|---|
Brassica | Bright Yellow |
Raphanus | Pink, Purple, or Light or Dull Yellow with dark veins |
Sinapis | Bright Yellow |
Genera | Sepals |
---|---|
Brassica | Erect to ascending positioning |
Raphanus | Erect positioning Linear shape |
Sinapis | Spreading to reflexed positioning |