Family: crucifers (Brassicaceae)
Flowering time: April–May
Size: 20–80 cm
Habitat: meadows and among shrubs
The erect stem of garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) is alternately leaved. The heart-shaped stem leaves are petiolate, and the leaf margin is distinctly incised. About 10 mm wide four-petaled flowers are grouped in inflorescences at the top of the stem. Initially the inflorescences are dense, but as the fruits develop they elongate. The fruits of crucifers, which are more than three times as long as wide, are called siliques. The mature siliques of garlic mustard are 3 to 6 cm long. This species has a distinctive garlic odor, which is easiest to notice if its leaf is crushed between the fingers.
Garlic mustard is widespread throughout Slovenia. It thrives best on nitrogen-rich soils, but avoids high elevations.
