Family: Brassicaceae (Cruciferae)

Background

These plants were introduced into the United States by European settlers to help with erosion and to use as a food source. The plant is high in Vitamin A and C and has a garlic flavor when cooked. It was also once used for medicinal purposes to treat ulcers and gangrene. The problem with the introduction of this plant is its invasive nature. It has the ability to aggressively take over the herbaceous layer of woodlands and displace natural grasses. In the state of Ohio, it is considered an invasive species.  

Family: Vitaceae

The Virginia creeper vine is very common in Ohio, often seen climbing up trees. It can climb tree trunks as high as 50 feet and it is very weather tolerant. This plant is often confused with poison ivy. Both plants are flowering, have similarly shaped leaves, and are climbing vines.