Family: Brassicaceae
Author: S.Watson
Bibliography: Botany [Fortieth Parallel]: 30 (1871)
Year: 1871
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Lepidium
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. U.S.A. to NE. Mexico
Description
Fremont’s pepperwort, known scientifically as Lepidium fremontii, is an intriguing member of the Brassicaceae family. This plant was first described in a significant botanical work in 1871 by the noted botanist S. Watson, during his extensive research of the flora in the southwestern United States and northeastern Mexico.
Fremont’s pepperwort is a perennial herb that has adapted to thrive in arid and semiarid environments. It typically flourishes in regions characterized by dry, rocky soils and full sun exposure, demonstrating a remarkable resilience to the challenging conditions of its native habitat.
The plant exhibits distinct morphological features. It usually manifests as a low-growing herb with a branching stem structure. The leaves of Lepidium fremontii are lanceolate to oblong, often showing a pale green to greyish hue that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. The foliage is sparsely covered with small hairs, which can impart a slightly rough texture.
One of the most notable aspects of Fremont’s pepperwort is its flowering mechanism. The plant produces small, white to cream-colored flowers that form in dense clusters. Each flower is composed of four petals arranged in a cross-like formation, characteristic of the Brassicaceae family. These blooms give rise to seed pods known as siliques, which eventually mature and disperse seeds, ensuring the propagation of the species.
Ecologically, Lepidium fremontii plays a role in its native ecosystem by providing food and habitat for various insects and small wildlife. Its seeds are a source of nutrition for birds, while the flowers attract pollinators, contributing to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.
Given its resilience and adaptability, Fremont’s pepperwort serves as an interesting subject of study for botanists and ecologists alike. It embodies the unique dynamics of plant survival in harsh environments and highlights the intricate relationships within its ecosystem.
Common Names
Eng: fremont’s pepperwort, desert pepperweed
En: Fremont’s pepperwort, Desert pepperweed
Synonyms
- Nasturtium fremontii ((S.Watson) Kuntze)
- Lepidium fremontii var. stipitatum (Rollins)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Nevada (native)
- Utah (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Apr 9, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 9, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 9, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2010 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Dec 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 29, 2016 by EOL − tphender (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Feb 18, 2021 by López Constanza (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5376525)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:286188-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lepidium fremontii S. Watson)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Shrub