Invasive Plants
Garlic Mustard
Alliaria petiolata
What it looks like:
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Herbaceous
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Stalk approximately 1-2 feet tall
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Clusters of small white flowers at top of stalk; 4 rounded petals on each
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Spade-shaped leaves with serrated edges; leaves at top of plant pointier than those at base; glossy/shiny; newest leaves tipped with reddish tinge
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Onion-like odor to leaves when crushed
Observed Habitat/Behavior
Growing in large groups in dappled shade in a grassy edge site near a paved school parking lot. Salem, early May. Flowers present, being investigated by roaming bumblebees.
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Massachusetts Conservation Status
Common
Massachusetts Native Status
Introduced from Europe/Asia
Photo/observer: Lis
Natural History
Garlic mustard is highly adaptable and can displace many native plants. It spreads easily - its seeds are dispersed by wind and water - and can alter soil conditions where it grows, making it impossible for certain native plants to grow there.
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Source: The Nature Conservancy