Garlic Mustard
Alliaria petiolata
Family: BrassicaceaeNative: Europe, Western and Central Asia, and Northwestern AfricaIdentified: Mar 10, 2026
A biennial herb characterized by heart-shaped, scalloped leaves that emit a distinct garlic odor when crushed. In its first year, it remains a low-growing rosette like the one pictured.
Learn more about Garlic Mustard in the encyclopedia →Care instructions
This plant is considered a highly invasive species in North America. It is not recommended for cultivation; instead, it should be removed by hand-pulling before it sets seed to prevent it from outcompeting native flora.