Brassica rapa dichotoma - (Roxb.)Hanelt.

(Roxb.)Hanelt.

Indian Rape

No photos yet for Brassica rapa dichotoma - (Roxb.)Hanelt.

Description

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.

Edible Uses

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.

Distribution

A cultivated form of B. rapa.

Where It Grows

(Brassica rapa) Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Morocco, North Caucasus, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Transcaucasus, Tunisia, Turkey, Yugoslavia.

Cultivation

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.