SafePlants

Thickstem Wild Cabbage (Caulanthus crassicaulis)

Caulanthus crassicaulis, commonly known as thickstem wild cabbage, is a flowering plant belonging to the mustard family (Brassicaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has a thick stem, which might be attractive to chewing animals.
• It is related to cabbage; sharp knife - this ensures the thick stem cooks at the same rate as the leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Caulanthus crassicaulis (Torr.) S. Watson
• Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Variety
• Synonyms: Streptanthus crassicaulis Torr.
• Alternative Scientific Names:
  • Caulanthus crassicaulis (Torr.) S. Watson var. glaber M.E. Jones
  • Caulanthus crassicaulis (Torr.) S. Wats. var. crassicaulis

Common Names

• Thickstem wild cabbage
• Thick-stem wild cabbage
• Thickstem wildcabbage
• Thick stemmed caulanthus
• Wild cabbage
• Coulter's wild cabbage
• Claspingleaf wild cabbage

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the western regions.
• Observed at I-70, Moore Junction rest area, along a dirt.
• Found in Lander Co., Shoshone Range, 9.2 miles e. of jct. of Mill Cr. Rd. &amp Hwy. 8A (now Hwy. 305), n. of Hwy.
• Observed in Pueblo Valley.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Classified as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
• Duration: Biennial, Perennial
• Grown habit: Forb/herb
• Leaves: gray-green
• Flowers: cream
• The plant is tall with very thick 1/2 inch stem.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Thickstem Wild Cabbage" is considered an "odd name" because the plant "seems to have little to do with cabbages."
• Watering thickstem wild cabbage is not necessary during the period of vegetational rest.

Additional Resources

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• California Academy of Sciences
• Garden Guides
• Discover Life
• United States Department of Agriculture
• Flora of North America