Rhodocarpa

Rhodocarpa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Brassicaceae, commonly known as the mustard or cabbage family. The genus was first described in 1861. Plants in the genus Rhodocarpa are typically small, herbaceous annuals or biennials. They are characterized by their small, white or pale yellow flowers, which are borne in racemes. The fruit is a silicle, a flattened, rounded, or obcordate capsule.

The genus Rhodocarpa is native to the Mediterranean region, with a few species extending into parts of North Africa and the Middle East. They are often found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides, waste ground, and agricultural fields. Some species are considered weeds due to their ability to spread rapidly.

While not widely cultivated, some species of Rhodocarpa may have minor uses. Historically, some related species in the Brassicaceae family have been used for their edible leaves or seeds, but Rhodocarpa species are not typically cultivated for these purposes. Their primary significance lies within their ecological role in their native habitats and their contribution to the biodiversity of the Brassicaceae family. Further research into the specific chemical compounds and potential applications of Rhodocarpa species is ongoing within the botanical community.