Species of Rapistrum are annual to perennials (Lifespan from 1 to 2 or more years).

The yellow petals are accompanied by sepals that stand vertically at near right angles (erecto-patent).

Leaf shape and arrangement varies from rough toothed (dentate) to a configuration of opposingly lobed pairs along the plant stalk, pinnately lobed.

The word "Rapistrum" is formed from the Latin rapa ("turnip") and -astrum, ("incomplete resemblance").

The distal of R. rugosum is strongly ribbed and narrows to form a beak whereas R. perenne is comparatively less wrinkled and ends with a style that stubbornly resists detachment, 'a persistent style'.