Theophrasti

Theophrasti refers to a genus of plants within the family Brassicaceae, commonly known as the mustard family. The name originates from the Greek philosopher Theophrastus, who was one of the earliest botanists to document plant species. Within this genus, the most notable species is *Theophrasta minima*, though it is often confused with other closely related plants.

Theophrasti is sometimes used colloquially to describe *Theophrasta minima*, a small, annual herb native to tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This plant is characterized by its slender, hairy stems and small, white or pale yellow flowers. It is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its delicate appearance.

In some contexts, particularly in older botanical literature, the term *Theophrasti* may also be mistakenly applied to *Thelesperma megapotamicum*, a different plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. This confusion arises from historical misclassifications or misidentifications in early botanical studies.

Theophrasti plants are generally of minor economic importance, though they may occasionally be used in traditional medicine or as forage for livestock in certain regions. Their ecological role is primarily as pioneer species, colonizing disturbed or open habitats. The genus is not widely studied compared to more commercially significant plants within the Brassicaceae family.