hedge mustard

American  

[hej muhs-terd] / ˈhɛdʒ ˌmʌs tərd /

noun

1. an erect cruciferous plant, Sisymbrium officinale, of the mustard family, having somewhat bitter leaves: a common weed found throughout the world, it is widely cultivated in Europe for its edible leaves and seeds, and in folk medicine is used especially to treat hoarseness and sore throats.

   rows of hedge mustard ready for harvest.

2. the leaves of this plant, used as food.

   grilled salmon served on a bed of warm, barely sautéed hedge mustard.

3. a concoction, especially in folk medicine, made from this plant.

   Gargle twice a day with hedge mustard.

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Etymology

Origin of hedge mustard

First recorded in 1665–75

Example Sentences

Among the numerous articles culled from the hedges and the springs, the following are a few in constant consumption: water-cresses, dandelions, scurvy-grass, nettles, bitter-sweet, cough-grass, feverfew, hedge mustard, Jack by the hedge, or sauce-alone.

From The Cries of London Exhibiting Several of the Itinerant Traders of Antient and Modern Times by Smith, John Thomas

Like its allies the larvae feed upon various cruciferous plants, the hedge mustard being one of these and the adults visit the flowers of the same family.

From Butterflies Worth Knowing by Weed, Clarence M.