iconstos

Iconstos is a genus of flowering plants in the family Brassicaceae, commonly known as the mustards. It is native to the Mediterranean region. The genus was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The name Iconstos is derived from the Greek word "eikon," meaning image or likeness, and "stoma," meaning mouth, likely referring to the distinctive shape of the siliques, the fruit of the plant.

Plants in the genus Iconstos are typically annual or biennial herbs. They are characterized by their simple, toothed or lobed leaves, and their white or yellow flowers. The flowers have four petals and are borne in racemes. The fruit is a silique, which is a long, narrow pod containing numerous small seeds. Species within Iconstos are often found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides, fields, and waste areas. They are generally hardy and adaptable plants.

Several species are recognized within the genus Iconstos, though taxonomic classifications can vary. Historically, the genus has been subject to revision and some species have been reclassified into other genera within the Brassicaceae family. The exact number of species and their distribution are subjects of ongoing botanical study. Research into Iconstos continues to explore its evolutionary relationships and ecological roles within its native environments.