Capsella bursa-pastoris, commonly known as shepherd's purse, is a small flowering plant in the mustard family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has spread worldwide. The plant is easily recognized by its heart-shaped seed pods and small white flowers, which bloom in spring and summer. Shepherd's purse typically grows in disturbed areas, such as fields and roadsides. It is a biennial or annual herb, reaching heights of 15 to 60 centimeters. The leaves are rosette-shaped at the base, while the stem leaves are more elongated. This plant is often considered a weed but has been used in traditional medicine.