White mustard (Sinapis alba)

Sinapis alba is the only crop species in the genus Sinapis, of which the common arable weed charlock is probably a better known representative because of its widespread occurrence in Great Britain.

White mustard has a small tapering root. The stem is erect, branched, rough, with slender reflected hairs and rises to the height of about two feet.

Originally from the Mediterranean, white mustard has been cultivated for centuries and has much the same culinary and medicinal uses as black mustard although it is less pungent.

Sinapis alba is one of the main species used for condiment mustard production worldwide.

White mustard seeds are pale yellow, nearly spherical and 1.5-2 mm in diameter. It is commercially cultivated for the seeds and greens. White mustard in the seedling stage is used as a salad vegetable, alone or together with cress (Lepidium sativum).

The seeds are more bitter and have stronger disinfectant and preserving properties, use in pickles and infuse boiling water as a gargle for sore throats.
White mustard (Sinapis alba)