Camelina sativa aka German Sesame

Camelina sativa is an annual herb in the mustard family, Brassicaceae. Common names include gold of pleasure, false flax, and Dutch flax. Its native range runs from the Mediterranean to central Asia. The RHS also lists it as native to Britain and Ireland. PFAF records a wider distribution across Europe and parts of Asia. In Britain, it grows as a weed in corn and flax fields.

The plant grows upright, with branches along its stems. The RHS describes heights of 1–4 feet [0.3–1.2 metres]. Its size guide gives an upper height near 5 feet [1.5 metres]. The stated spread is about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. The broader size guide allows nearly 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Green, spear-shaped leaves grow on this narrow, upright plant. It reaches its full size within one year. As an annual, it does not form a lasting woody framework.

Small flowers have four petals and a pale yellow colour. They open from May to July, spanning late spring and summer. The RHS suggests this plant for wildflower meadows and wildlife gardens. PFAF also lists cultivated beds as a growing site. Its upright form suits planting among other meadow plants. Seeds provide oil, which accounts for several of its recorded uses. The supplied sources give no details about the fruit's form.

Grow it in full sun with moist soil that drains well. The RHS lists chalk, clay, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions. South-facing and west-facing sites suit it, whether exposed or sheltered. Sow seeds outdoors to raise new plants. No pruning is needed during its short life. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H5. PFAF lists USDA zones 6–9. The RHS reports few usual problems with pests or disease.

PFAF identifies oil from the seeds as an edible product. This does not establish that all plant parts are edible. It reports no known hazards and no known medicinal uses. The oil also has uses as lamp fuel and a skin softener. Stems supply fibre and material for making brooms. PFAF does not flag weed potential in its rating. Yet its account of British field habitats records it as a crop weed.