Shepherds-Bag Capsella bursa-pastoris

Shepard's purse is a common herbaceous annual garden weed in the mustard family (Brassicaceae) native to Europe and Asia.  It has spread to many countries of the world and invades any disturbed site.

This plant prefers moist well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of drought, shade and soil compaction and tolerates temperatures down to 10 degrees F.  It can grow 6 inches to 2 feet tall depending on soil and light conditions. The plant is self-fertile and the seeds germinate both spring and fall.  They are spread by self-seeding and animals.

The white flowers bloom at any time in loose clusters and produce flat, heart-shaped seedpods  This shape is said to resemble the leather purse of shepherds during the Middle Ages, thus the common name.  Each seedpod has around 20 shiny, ovoid-oblong seeds.

The leaves, seeds and flowering shoots are edible, raw or cooked.  Before flowering, young leaves can be added to salads.  The seeds can be ground and used for flavoring in soups.  Fresh or dried root can be a substitute for ginger.

It has been noted that the seed attracts mosquitoes when placed in water.  It produces a gummy substance that binds the mosquito's mouth to the seed.  Seeds also emit a toxic substance to the larvae.  When grown on salty/marshy land, it will absorb the salt and sweeten the soil.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Aphids, curculio beetles, gall and leaf miners can attack the plant