Identification
This native biennial grows up to 3 feet tall, but usually shorter. The upper leaves are lance-shaped, without stalks but do not clasp the stem. The small, white flowers have 4 petals. They are in a cluster (raceme) near the top of the stem (A,C). The fruit holding the seeds (silique), up to 4 inches long, is slightly flattened and curves downward when mature, resembling a tiny string bean (B). See comments for features differentiating this plant from similar Rock Cress (Boechera dentata).
Uncommon in woodlands at both Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods. Flowering occurs in May and June.
The similar Rock Cress (Boechera dentata) has clasping leaves and siliques which curve slightly upward. It is also quite rare so any plant resembling these two, particularly in the uplands, is most likely Sicklepod.
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