Raphanus raphanistrum L.
Family: Brassicaceae
Pertinent Synonyms & Notes (particularly those used in California; go to GRIN for other synonyms)
most California populations have introgressed with Raphanus sativus L.
Pertinent Common Names (particularly those used in California; go to GRIN for other common names)
wild radish
Primary Disseminule Type
fruit segment
Description (diagnostics are in brown)
Fruit a multi-(commonly 4–8)seeded, partially dehiscent silique, cylindrical or narrowly lanceolate, ± terete, strongly constricted between seeds at maturity, longitudinally grooved, (2)4–8 cm long x (2)3–8(11) mm wide including the apical beak (=terminal segment) which is 10–20 mm long. At maturity, the fruit breaks apart transversely into short-cylindrical, woody, single-seeded segments measuring ca. 4–7 mm long x 3–8 mm diameter. These segments typically retain the seed and constitute the disseminule.
Seed ovoid or oblong to globose, ± terete to somewhat compressed, (1.5)2–3.5 mm long x 1.5–2.5 mm wide x 1.5–2.5 mm thick. Surface glabrous, greasy, alveolate, interspaces typically pitted, reddish-brown to black, tri-ridged (with a smaller ridge on either side of the prominent ridge outlining the position of the radicle).
Hilar region a flush or slightly raised yellowish linear ridge partially bisecting a blackish area.
Embryo bent, cotyledons conduplicate, endosperm lacking.
Similar Species
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