Brassica rapa aka Field Mustard

Taxonomy

Brassica rapa, a plant species with various cultivated forms, is known for its versatility in culinary and agricultural applications. Some of its popular forms include turnips, napa cabbage, bomdong, bok choy, and rapini. Additionally, Brassica rapa subsp. oleifera, commonly referred to as rape or field mustard, is an oilseed with several aliases such as bird's rape and keblock. The oil extracted from its seeds is commonly known as rapeseed oil, but can also be called canola oil for food-grade purposes or colza oil for non-food applications. In Canada, canola oil is primarily sourced from Brassica rapa and Brassica napus, while Brassica juncea, also known as brown mustard, is a less significant crop for oil production. Bred specifically for the British climate, this variety of Brassica rapa is characterized by its slower bolting and extended cropping season. It features broad white stems and deep green leaves. Field mustard, belonging to the mustard family (Brassicaceae), is an upright winter annual or biennial plant. It typically forms basal rosettes until flowering stems develop in the second year. With a height ranging from 1 to 3 (or 4) feet, it has a many-branched stem and foliage that is generally hairless, sometimes with a whitish film. The lower leaves can grow up to 12 inches in length, featuring a large central lobe and one to four pairs of smaller side lobes. Upper leaves are smaller, non-lobed, and have a pointed tip and widened, clasping base. Bright yellow flowers cluster at the tops of the stems, each with four petals measuring ¼ to ½ inch long. Field mustard blooms from January to September and can exhibit invasive tendencies in certain regions of the Western United States and Canada.

Common names

Field Mustard, Pak Choi, Turnip

How to care for Field Mustard

Difficulty

Field Mustard requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Field Mustard should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Field Mustard loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Field Mustard prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Field Mustard to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

The Field Mustard does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The growth of Field Mustard is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Field Mustard’s native range is Western Europe, the Mediterranean, and temperate Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia