IDENTIFICATION
Winter annual.
Small, bluish-purple, four-petal flowers connected by a stalk to the central
stem appear in early April. Mature plants can grow to 0.5 metre tall,
with branches that spread mainly from the base. Leaves are oval, tapering
to the stalk. They have uneven edges and are partially covered with very
small hairs. Foliage has a disagreeable odor (like stale dishrags).
DAMAGE
Blue mustard invades disturbed habitats and cultivated lands
reducing crop yields and affecting crop quality, especially winter wheat.
Blue mustard produces a disagreeable odour and, when grazed by
dairy animal, can result in milk with an off-flavour.
HABITAT
Blue mustard is frequent in the low elevation areas of the BC Interior
- commonly found in dry areas such as grain fields, along roadsides, rights-of-way,
and disturbed habitats.
SPREAD
This weed spreads by seed.
