American yellowrocket facts for kids
Quick facts for kids American yellowrocket |
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Scientific classification | |
Genus: |
Barbarea
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Species: |
orthoceras
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Synonyms | |
Barbarea americana |
Barbarea orthoceras is a flowering plant often called American yellowrocket. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which is also known as the mustard family. This plant is found in North America, including much of Canada and the western United States. You can also find it in some parts of Asia. It likes to grow in wet places like meadows and along riverbanks.
Discovering American Yellowrocket
This plant is a perennial herb, meaning it lives for many years. It grows a stiff, branching stem that can be 10 to 60 centimeters (about 4 to 24 inches) tall. Its leaves are usually a few centimeters long. They are oval-shaped and have several rounded parts near the end.
Flowers and Seeds
The American yellowrocket produces bright yellow flowers. These flowers grow in a cluster or spike at the end of each stem branch. After the flowers, the plant makes a straight, narrow fruit. This fruit is called a silique, which is a type of long seed pod. It can grow up to 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) long.
Can You Eat American Yellowrocket?
Yes, you can! The leaves of the American yellowrocket can be eaten. You can enjoy them raw in salads or cook them. The roots of this plant also have a special taste. They can taste a bit like horseradish.