Tall Mustard, Jim Hill Mustard, Tumble Mustard, High Mustard
Sisymbrium altissimum
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Tall Mustard is edible, though generally considered a famine food. The young leaves and shoots can be eaten raw or cooked, and the seeds can be ground into a flour or used as a spice. It is a vigorous self-seeder and can be used as a green manure or cover crop. It attracts some beneficial insects, but can also become weedy.
Permapeople description
An annual or biennial plant native to Eurasia. It is a common weed in disturbed areas.
Botanical description
Sisymbrium altissimum is an annual or biennial herb in the mustard family (Brassicaceae). It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet. The stem is erect, branched, and sparsely hairy. The leaves are deeply lobed and alternate along the stem. The flowers are small, yellow, and arranged in racemes. The fruits are long, slender siliques containing numerous small, brown seeds. The plant is native to Eurasia but has become naturalized throughout North America and other parts of the world. It is known for its tumbleweed-like dispersal of seeds when mature.
Companion planting
Due to its potential to become weedy, careful consideration should be given to companion planting. It may compete with desirable garden plants. Favorable associations are not well documented, but it could potentially be used as a trap crop for certain pests affecting brassicas.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed. It self-seeds readily. Seeds can be sown directly in the ground in spring or fall. No pretreatment is necessary.
History and traditions
Historically, Sisymbrium altissimum has been used as a survival food during times of scarcity. Native Americans have used the seeds as a food source. In some cultures, the plant has been used medicinally for its purported diuretic and expectorant properties. The tumbleweed nature of the plant has also made it a symbol of the American West.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Spring to Summer. Seed Maturation: Summer to Fall. Planting: Spring or Fall. Harvesting (Leaves): Spring. Harvesting (Seeds): Summer to Fall.