There are indeed several plants that can be mistaken for garlic mustard, depending on the form of the plant. In its low-growing rosette form, garlic mustard can resemble other common plants such as fringecup (Tellima grandiflora) and piggy-back plant (Tolmiea menziesii).
When identifying garlic mustard, it’s important to pay attention to certain characteristics of the plant. However, it’s worth noting that even experienced gardeners can sometimes mistake garlic mustard for other similar-looking plants. So, let’s take a closer look at these potential lookalikes.
1. Fringecup (Tellima grandiflora): Fringecup can bear some resemblance to garlic mustard, especially in its early growth stage. Look for hairy leaves and stems on the fringecup plant. Additionally, fringecup typically produces attractive clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers, which garlic mustard does not have.
2. Piggy-back plant (Tolmiea menziesii): Another plant that can be mistaken for garlic mustard is the piggy-back plant. Like garlic mustard, piggy-back plant has hairy leaves and stems. However, piggy-back plant tends to have more rounded leaves compared to the more triangular or heart-shaped leaves of garlic mustard. Additionally, piggy-back plant is known for its unique ability to produce plantlets along its leaf margins, giving it the name “piggy-back.”
While these are two common plants that can resemble garlic mustard, it’s important to note that there may be other plants that could be mistaken for garlic mustard depending on the specific region or habitat.
To avoid confusion, it’s always helpful to consult a reliable field guide or seek assistance from local gardening or plant identification resources in your area. Additionally, if you are uncertain about a plant’s identity, it’s best to err on the side of caution and refrain from consuming or using it until you can positively identify it.
Personal experience-wise, I have encountered instances where I initially mistook fringecup and piggy-back plant for garlic mustard. However, with a closer examination and further research, I was able to differentiate between these plants and correctly identify garlic mustard in my garden. It’s always a learning experience, and taking the time to accurately identify plants is crucial for maintaining a healthy garden and avoiding any potential risks.
