Indian Colza
Brassica rapa trilocularis
Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae
What it is like
Brassica rapa trilocularis is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.9
Where it is found
Not known in the wild.
A cultivated form of B. rapa.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Leaves - raw or cooked. Used as a vegetable or fermented and stored for winter use. A bit on the coarse side, though the young leaves can be added in moderation to salads whilst older leaves make an acceptable vegetable. An edible oil is obtained from the seeds. It is used for cooking.
Oil: Oil
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 0
The oil from the seed is used for lighting. The seed husks are used in plastering house walls.
Lighting: Plants that can be used as torches etc. See also Oil and Wax.
Oil: Vegetable oils have many uses, as lubricants, lighting, soap and paint making, waterproofing etc. This does not include the edible oils unless they are also mentioned as having other uses.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Succeeds in full sun in a well-drained fertile preferably alkaline soil. Prefers a light sandy soil and dislikes a heavy soil. Prefers cool moist growing conditions. Succeeds in any reasonable soil. Tolerates a pH in the range 4.3 to 8.3. Indian colza is cultivated mainly in India and Nepal for its oil-rich seeds.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ April to September. Some varieties can also be sown in a cold greenhouse in late autumn, winter or early spring to provide leaves overwinter and in late spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Biennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist