Indian Rape
Brassica rapa dichotoma
Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae
What it is like
Brassica rapa dichotoma 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. 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.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 0
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 rape is cultivated mainly in India and Nepal for its oil-rich seeds.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ in the 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