Whitlow grass

Erophila verna

Erophila verna, commonly known as Common Whitlowgrass, is a small annual or biennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Europe but can be found in various regions across the globe. Common Whitlowgrass is known for its early spring flowering and is often found in disturbed areas. Here's an informative description of this plant:

Description:

  1. Plant Structure:

    • Size: Common Whitlowgrass is a small plant, typically growing to a height of 2 to 10 centimeters.
    • Growth Form: It has a rosette-forming growth habit, with basal leaves close to the ground.

  2. Leaves:

    • Leaf Shape: The leaves are simple, narrow, and linear to spatulate in shape.
    • Arrangement: Basal leaves are arranged in a rosette, and stem leaves are alternate.

  3. Flowers:

    • Inflorescence: The small, white flowers have four petals and are arranged in a loose raceme.
    • Flowering Season: Common Whitlowgrass is an early spring bloomer, often flowering in late winter to early spring.

  4. Fruit:

    • Seed Pods: The plant produces slender seed pods (siliques) containing tiny seeds.

Identification:

  • Size and Growth Form: The small size and rosette-forming habit are characteristic.
  • Early Blooming: The early flowering period, often in late winter, is a key identifier.

Ecological Role:

  1. Habitat: Common Whitlowgrass thrives in disturbed areas, including fields, roadsides, and open habitats.
  2. Pioneer Species: It is often one of the first plants to bloom in the spring, acting as a pioneer species.

Management:

  1. Cultural Control:

    • Prevention: In garden settings, promoting healthy and dense vegetation can prevent the establishment of Common Whitlowgrass.
    • Mulching: Applying mulch can help suppress its growth.

  2. Mechanical Control:

    • Hand Pulling: For small infestations, hand pulling is effective due to its shallow root system.
    • Mowing: Regular mowing can prevent the formation of seed heads.

  3. Chemical Control:

    • Herbicides: Selective herbicides may be used for larger infestations, following recommended guidelines.

Note: While Common Whitlowgrass is often considered a common and harmless plant, it can become weedy in certain settings.