What is Pennycress?
Pennycress is a plant in the genus Thlaspi. Several species within this genus are referred to as pennycress, and the common names for pennycress species often intersect, sometimes making it difficult to determine which species is under discussion. Common pennycress, field pennycress, and Alpine pennycress are some examples of commonly used terms for several species in this plant genus. Many people regard pennycress as a weed, because it spreads rapidly and it tends to look scraggly and unsightly. It also poses a danger to livestock, since it is toxic to animals like cattle and sheep, especially in large amounts. As a result, people often work to eradicate pennycress, although this can be challenging in areas where the plant is widespread, as the pennycress may reseed itself, courtesy of other plants in the community. This plant is native to Eurasia, where it adapted to sunny environments and poor soil conditions. It is typically an annual, producing leaves which start as a low rosette