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.