Capsella bursa-pastoris, known as shepherd’s purse because of its triangular flat fruits, which are purse-like, is a small annual and ruderal flowering plant in the mustard family (Brassicaceae).
Shepherd’s purse likes well drained, sandy soils with good porosity. However, this plant might be a sign that your soil is lacking Calcium, organic matter, moisture, and beneficial soil bacteria.
Scientists have referred to this species as a ‘protocarnivorous’, since it has been found that its seeds attract and kill nematodes to locally enrich the soil.
