Field mustard - Brassica rapa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Edible)

Field mustard

Also known as: Bok choy, Napa cabbage, Bomdong

Field mustard (Brassica rapa) is a plant that is widely cultivated and produces oilseed. Canola oil is made from the field mustard oilseed. Field mustard attracts white butterflies who gain nutrients from its flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Field mustard (Brassica rapa)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Early spring, Late spring, Fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

50 m to 1 m

Plant Height

40 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 mm to 5 mm

Flower Size

Green, Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Field mustard

Distribution of Field mustard

Distribution Map

Field mustard has a broad global presence, with native roots in regions of Europe. This plant has been introduced and is cultivated across various continents, including Asia, Africa, the Americas, and parts of Europe, indicating its versatility and adaptability to diverse climates. In certain areas, field mustard may be considered to maintain a presence that could influence local ecosystems, particularly in parts of South America and island nations within the Pacific. While field mustard is valued for agriculture, its impact on ecosystems outside its native range is observed with caution.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated Beds

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Vegetable gardeners prize field mustard for its edible leaves, buds, and stems. Despite some typical vegetable-growing challenges, it can also be used as border interest in other types of full sun to partial shade gardens. It combines well with other edible species like Peas, Beans, Carrots, Dill, and Spinach.

Symbolism

Fertility, Protection, Mental powers

Name Story

Field mustard: This plant belongs to the Brassicaceae family or also known as mustards and it is also one of the most common Brassica plants in the field. Therefore, it is called field mustard.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Field mustard, including the following common varieties :

Field mustard 'Sweet Bell'Choy sum

Toxicity

The seeds of field mustard contain an oil that can irritate human skin and be toxic if ingested. Topical use may cause mild redness due to increased blood flow and dilated blood vessels.

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Care Guide for Field mustard

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from temperate regions, field mustard flourishes in moist environments with consistent soil moisture, ideally watered twice a week. While moderately drought-tolerant, it benefits from rainwater, which hydrates without excess salts. Outdoors, field mustard thrives in open fields, reflecting its natural habitat's conditions.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of field mustard, use a high-nitrogen fertilizer biweekly during peak growth and monthly in dormancy. Water after application to enhance nutrient uptake. During budding, mix high-nitrogen with phosphorous-potassium fertilizers, adjusting dosage based on the plant’s size and growth stage for best results.

Pruning: Field mustard thrives with vibrant yellow flowers and rapid growth. Prune in early to late spring by removing dead stems for air circulation, pinching back new growth for bushiness, and cutting spent flowers to extend blooming. These practices promote shape maintenance and disease prevention.

Propagation: Field mustard propagates easily by sowing in Spring, with high success rates. Signs of successful propagation include germination and new growth. Maintaining adequate soil moisture is crucial for optimal results.

Repotting: Field mustard requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to thrive effectively.

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