Wild Radish

Raphanus raphanistrum

Sometimes claimed to be the ancestor of the edible radish, Raphanus sativus, the Wild Radish flowers in varying colours of white, yellow and lilac. It has four purple-veined petals. The leaves are pinnate with a large terminal lobe, and 1-4 pairs of separated lateral lobes. The plant rises from a single taproot similar to the edible radish, which helps it to resist drought. It is an annual or biennial. Plant height 30cm to 100cm. Flower size 12 to 20mm across.

It flowers May to September, and it is found in disturbed arable land or wasteland, and roadside verges. It is native to Britain, and known from prehistoric times. A common and widespread species, and often regarded as an invasive weed in farming.

Photograph of Wild Radish (Raphanus raphanistrum) taken October 2016, local field, Staffordshire. © Pete Hillman 2016. Camera used Nikon D7200, with Nikon 18-55mm lens with polarising filter.