Capsella

This frost-hardy annual is originally from Europe and has naturalized widely. This plant has a flavor resembling Mustard. The branched stems rise up from a basal rosette of leaves. In early summer, spikes, 12 to 2 feet high and bearing white flowers, rise out of the foliage. The blossoms are followed by purse-shaped fruits.

Pot Cultivation

These plants should have full sun and may be planted in any kind of soil. When harvesting, the whole plant is cut to obtain the basal leaves. Pick the flower stems when you see the first "purses" forming. Strip off immature seeds and get rid of the tough end of the flower spray. The peppery leaves and flowers may be added sparingly to potherbs and spring salad greens. Cut the entire plant at early seed stage for wreath making; they turn a pretty straw-yellow.

Propagation

Seeds aren't usually available; it is easier to get a start from wild plants. If seeds are obtained, sow them outside in early autumn or very early spring.

C. bursa-pastoris.

VARIETIES

C. bursa-pastoris.