Brassicaceae

English: Mustard/Cabbage family
Dutch: Kruisbloemenfamilie

The Brassicaceae is a family of herbaceous plants comprising about 372 genera and 4,060 species. They are distributed worldwide, particularly in temperate regions, and include many important vegetables, oil crops, and ornamental plants. The family is characterized by its distinctive flower shape.

Key Identifying Features

• Flowers: Four petals arranged in a cross (cruciform), four sepals, six stamens (4 long, 2 short)
• Fruits: Silique (long) or silicle (short), splitting along two seams
• Leaves: Usually alternate, often with a peppery taste
• Chemistry: Often contain glucosinolates, giving characteristic pungent flavor

Parent: Plantae