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 |