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false madwort
Scientific Name: Berteroa
Family: Brassicaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Hoary False Madwort (Berteroa incana)
Also known as hoary alyssum, hoary false alyssum, and simply false madwort, Berteroa incana is a flowering plant belonging to the mustard family.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant produces small, elliptic, short-hairy fruit pods measuring 5-7 mm long.
- It is reported as invasive in some regions.
Considerations for Children
- This plant produces small, elliptic, short-hairy fruit pods measuring 5-7 mm long.
- It is reported as invasive in some regions.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Berteroa incana (L.) DC.
- Family: Brassicaceae (also known as Cruciferae or Mustard family)
- Rank: Species
- Synonym: Alyssum incanum L.
Common Names
- Hoary Alyssum
- Hoary False Alyssum
- Hoary False Madwort
- False Madwort
- Hoary Alison
Distribution and Habitat
- Native Origin: Europe
- U.S. Nativity: Exotic
- Grows in fields, preferring full sun and the ability to thrive in rocky and poor soil.
Ecological Role
- Reported as invasive in Colorado (CO) and Wyoming (WY). Its invasive nature can impact local ecosystems.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- An annual to short-lived perennial forb, growing on stiff, leafy stems.
- Typically grows from 10 to 28 inches (approximately 25 to 71 cm) tall. Some sources claim it grows up to 48 cm tall.
- Flowers are small, white with deeply notched petals and arranged in rounded clusters.
- Leaves are alternate, small, and hairy.
- Fruit pods are elliptic, short-hairy, and 5-7 mm long.
Related Species
- Berteroa mutabilis (Roadside False Madwort)
- Berteroa obliqua
- Berteroa orbiculata
- Berteroa stricta
Further Information
- USDA PLANTS Database (Symbol: BERTE)
- NIISS.org species profile
- Stevens County Weed Board: http://www.co.stevens.wa.us/weedboard/