Purple Mistress (Moricandia arvensis): A Non-Native Wildflower You Probably Don’t Want in Your Garden
If you’ve stumbled across the name purple mistress while researching wildflowers, you might be intrigued by this mysterious-sounding plant. But before you go searching for seeds, let’s dive into what Moricandia arvensis really is and why it’s probably not the best choice for your native garden.
What Is Purple Mistress?
Purple mistress (Moricandia arvensis) is a non-native forb that has found its way into parts of the United States, particularly Virginia. Originally from the Mediterranean region and parts of Europe and North Africa, this biennial or perennial herb belongs to the mustard family and has established itself as a naturalized species that reproduces without human help.
As a forb, purple mistress lacks significant woody tissue and produces perennating buds at or below ground level. You might also see it listed under its synonym Brassica arvensis in older botanical references.
Where Does It Grow?
Currently, Moricandia arvensis has been documented growing wild in Virginia, though its range may extend beyond what’s officially recorded. As a non-native species that’s become established, it tends to pop up in disturbed areas, roadsides, and waste places rather than pristine natural habitats.
Should You Plant Purple Mistress?
Here’s where we need to have an honest conversation. While purple mistress isn’t currently listed as invasive or noxious, it’s still a non-native species that doesn’t provide the same ecological benefits as our native plants. Here’s what to consider:
The Case Against Purple Mistress
- Limited ecological value: Native insects, birds, and other wildlife have evolved alongside native plants, not Mediterranean imports
- Weedy appearance: This isn’t a showstopper plant that will elevate your garden design
- Unknown long-term impacts: Without clear data on its invasive potential, it’s better to err on the side of caution
- Better alternatives exist: Native plants offer superior beauty and ecological benefits
Growing Conditions
If you encounter purple mistress in the wild, you’ll typically find it in:
- Disturbed soils and waste areas
- Roadsides and field margins
- Areas with poor soil quality
- USDA hardiness zones 6-9 (estimated based on current range)
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of purple mistress, consider these native options that offer similar spring color and much better ecological value:
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Purple-pink flowers beloved by pollinators
- Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Stunning purple blooms and excellent wildlife value
- New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae): Late-season purple flowers that support dozens of native bee species
- Wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis): Beautiful purple flower spikes and host plant for endangered butterflies
The Bottom Line
While purple mistress might sound intriguing, it’s not a plant that will enhance your native garden or support local wildlife in meaningful ways. As gardeners committed to supporting native ecosystems, we’re better off choosing plants that have co-evolved with our local wildlife and contribute to biodiversity.
If you’re drawn to purple spring flowers, explore the many stunning native alternatives that will give you better garden performance while supporting the birds, bees, and butterflies that call your area home. Your garden—and your local ecosystem—will thank you for it.
