Brassica nigra (L.) W.D.J. Koch in Röhling
Family: Brassicaceae
Pertinent Synonyms & Notes (particularly those used in California; go to GRIN for other synonyms)
Sinapis nigra L.
Pertinent Common Names (particularly those used in California; go to GRIN for other common names)
black mustard
Primary Disseminule Type
seed
Description (diagnostics are in brown)
Fruit a multi-seeded, dehiscent silique, linear to oblong, ± 4-angled, somewhat constricted between seeds, glabrous, smooth, (0.6)1–2.5(2.7) cm long x 1.5–2.5(4) mm wide including the apical beak (=terminal segment) which is (1)2–5(6) mm long.
Seed irregularly elliptical (rounded to angular) to ovoid or sub-globose, (1)1.2–1.5(2) mm diameter, often without a distinct ridge or groove representing the position of the radicle. Surface glabrous, dark reddish-brown to black, coarsely reticulated (prominent thick veins with small, deep interspaces), interspaces of mature seeds typically pitted.
Hilar region a flush or slightly raised white linear ridge on top of a darker, sometimes circular area.
Embryo bent, cotyledons conduplicate, endosperm lacking.
Similar Species
Similar Species Comparison Chart
Risk Assessment (codes in yellow or red indicate cause for concern; assessments are current as of mid-2011; click AUQP, NZBORIC, or NZBPI for access to the most recent versions of these databases and possible assessment changes)
AUQP, NZBORIC, NZBPI