Identification
This native biennial, up to 18 inches tall, is often bent over (A). The oblong upper leaves, up to 2 inches long, clasp a thin, hairy stem (B). The tiny, white flowers with 4 petals are in a cluster (raceme) near the top of the stems. The slender pod holding the seeds (silique) protrudes from the flower and slopes slightly upward when mature. It has a circular cross-section. See comments for differentiating from similar Sicklepod (Boechera canadensis).
Found in rich moist woods at Fontenelle Forest where this inconspicuous plant is rare and easily overlooked. It has not yet been found at Neale Woods. Flowering occurs from April to June.
The similar and more common Sicklepod (Boechera canadensis) has drooping siliques and non-clasping leaves.
This plant is also known as Short’s Rock Cress and, until recently reclassified, its scientific name was Arabis shortii.
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