Brassica napus
oilseed rape
The wild hybrid plant (a cross between cabbage and turnip) from which swede and oilseed rape have been selected. It is a biennial which has silvery-green leaves and bright yellow flowers, much loved by bees
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, Neutral, AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green Grey Silver | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Genus
Brassicas can be annual, biennial or perennial plants, most are upright with alternate, often glaucous leaves, long taproots and clusters of cross-shaped, yellow or white flowers. The genus includes a number of species bred to produce food crops, such as cabbages, turnips, mustards and oilseed rape, as well as others grown for their ornamental value
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in full sun in firm, fertile soil - including coastal regions
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.