Lepidium latifolium

Non-standard Names: Broad-leaf Peppergrass, Tall Whitetop

Background: Perennial pepperweed is a native of Southern Europe & Western Asia.

Identification: This perennial plant ranges in height from 1 to over 3 feet. Leaves are lanceolate and bright to gray-green. The basal leaves are larger than the stem leaves. The small, white flowers appear during the summer season in dense clusters at the end of branches. The fruit on the plant is a silicle and contains two seeds per fruit. The reddish-brown fruit is rounded, flattened, slightly hairy, and about 1/6 inch long. Deep, thick roots, and leaves and stems that are covered with a waxy layer make perennial pepperweed difficult to control.

Distribution: Perennial pepperweed grows in waste places, wet areas, ditches, roadsides, alfalfa fields and cropland.

Control: Contact local pest control advisor.

Photo by: University of California, Cooperative Extension

Pepperweed brochure: http://wric.ucdavis.edu/information/pepperweed.html