Also known as Bargeman's Cabbage · Bird's Rape · Birdsrape Mustard
Field mustard (Brassica rapa) is a vigorous annual herb known for its bright yellow flowers and as a versatile crop used for oil, food, and forage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, fertile loam
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Grows best in temperatures between 15-25°C. Can tolerate light frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low Feeding
25% intensity
Not a heavy feeder; fertilize sparingly if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Field mustard prefers consistent moisture. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
Pruning is generally not required for field mustard. If plants become overgrown or leggy, you can trim them back to encourage bushier growth and potentially extend the harvest period.
Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves promptly.
Field mustard is easily grown from seed. Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost or in early spring for a fall harvest.
Seeds germinate quickly, usually within 7-10 days, in well-draining soil with adequate moisture and sunlight.
Repotting is not applicable as field mustard is typically grown as an annual directly in the ground or in containers for a single season. If grown in containers, choose a pot with good drainage and transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Field Mustard (Brassica rapa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Brassica |
| Species | Brassica rapa |
Similar in genus Brassica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
