Resedaceae

The Resedaceae is a family of about 40 species of fragrant-flowered herbs and shrubs, primarily found in Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. These plants, commonly known as mignonettes, typically grow to heights of 30 to 75 cm (1 to 2 feet) and have pinnately lobed leaves. Their flowers are borne in long spikes and are usually white or yellowish-green with orange anthers.1

A popular garden species, Reseda odorata, is cultivated for its delicate, musky fragrance and an essential oil used in perfumery. Other notable species include wild mignonette (R. lutea) and white mignonette (R. alba). The plant Reseda luteola, also known as weld, has been used for over 3,000 years to produce a yellow dye. The Resedaceae family is part of the Brassicales order, which is characterized by the presence of sulfur-containing compounds known as glucosinolates.12