Thlaspi arvense
field pennycress
An annual with an upright habit that grows between 30–60 cm in height. It has smooth, branching stems and spear-shaped leaves that emit a mild garlic-like scent when crushed. It produces clusters of small, white, unscented flowers arranged on upright stems from May to July, followed by distinctive flat, round seed pods resembling old pennies
Other common names
boor's mustarddish mustard
see moreFrench weed
Mithridate mustard
pennycress
treaclewort
wild cress
stinkweed
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in disturbed soils like farmland, roadsides, and field margins. Prefers full sun and nutrient-rich, well-drained loam but tolerates sandy or clay soils. See Creating wildflower meadows for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed, self seeds freely
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
generally disease-free
Get involved
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