Brassica Napus Subsp. Napus

(Brassica napus)

Brassica Napus Subsp. Napus (Brassica napus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rapeseed, commonly known as Brassica napus subsp. napus, is an annual herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region and temperate climates of Europe, where it thrives in open fields, agricultural areas, and along roadsides. Rapeseed reaches up to 100 cm (39 in) in height and is characterized by its bright-yellow flowers that bloom in spring, providing a vibrant display. The flowers are about 17 mm (21⁄32 in) across, with four petals arranged in a cross pattern, a distinctive feature of the Brassicaceae family. The lower leaves are fleshy, pinnatifid, and glaucous, with stalks, while the upper leaves clasp the stem without petioles.

Rapeseed is valued for its oil-rich seeds, which are a major source of vegetable oil for cooking and biodiesel. The plant is also used in crop rotation for its ability to improve soil quality. It is easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance, and is adaptable to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 8.3. Rapeseed has a moderate tolerance to soil salinity. It is best cultivated in full sun and requires medium amounts of water with medium or slow soil drainage. While it is not known for particular diseases, it can be susceptible to pests such as flea beetles and aphids. Due to its potential invasiveness, caution is advised when growing rapeseed outside its native range, especially in the United States.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.8-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to the Mediterranean region and temperate climates of Europe, thriving in open fields, agricultural areas, and along roadsides

Other Names

Common Names: Swedish Turnip , Canola , Oilseed Rape , Rapeseed , Rutabaga , Winter Rape , Lanttu , Rapsi , Navette , Chou Navet

Scientific Names: Brassica napus , Brassica napus var. napobrassica , Brassica napus var. pabularia , Brassica gongylodes , Brassica napus subsp. oleifera , Brassica napus var. napus , Brassica napus var. oleifera , Brassica napus subsp. rapifera , Brassica napus var. rapifera , Brassica campestris var. nippo-oleifera

GBIF Accepted Name: Brassica napus L.