couplingia

Couplingia is a genus of small, typically herbaceous plants belonging to the family Brassicaceae, commonly known as the mustard family. These plants are native to various regions, with a significant presence in the Mediterranean basin and extending into parts of Asia. They are generally characterized by their low-growing habit, often forming rosettes of leaves, and their production of small, four-petaled flowers, typical of the Brassicaceae family.

The species within Couplingia are often found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides, fields, and arid or semi-arid environments. Their reproductive strategy usually involves small seeds, facilitating dispersal in these open or disturbed areas. While not widely cultivated, some species may be encountered as weeds or as minor components of natural vegetation. The genus is distinguished by specific morphological features of its fruits, known as silicles, and its floral structures, which botanists use for classification and identification. Research into Couplingia often focuses on its ecological roles, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships within the broader mustard family.