Brassica napus subsp. oleifera (oilseed rape) — Bushy

Overview

Brassica napus subsp. oleifera is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Brassica, part of the Brassicaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Brassica napus subsp. oleifera grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.

About

Brassica napus subsp. oleifera, commonly known as oilseed rape, is a bushy annual or biennial plant within the Brassica genus, which includes a variety of species cultivated for food and ornamental purposes. This evergreen plant thrives in full sun and prefers fertile, firm, well-drained alkaline soil, tolerating chalk, clay, loam, and sand. It is hardy in the UK (H5) and is suitable for south- or west-facing aspects in both exposed and sheltered locations. Oilseed rape is typically grown from seed and is of interest through spring, summer, and autumn, making it a versatile choice for patio and container planting.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Brassica

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Brassica napus subsp. oleifera size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Brassica napus subsp. oleifera

Propagation: Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to flea beetle which can prevent seedlings from thriving and attacked by caterpillars when eggs laid by butterflies, hatch and feed. It is very popular food for pigeons which only netting can prevent. It is also eaten by snails, although once plants are established, this damage isn't usually severe. The cabbage root fly can cause failure to thrive and a heavy infestation of mealy cabbage aphid can spoil the harvest
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to brassica downy mildew and brassica white blister. In areas where brassicas have been grown before, club root can build up in the soil

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Brassica napus subsp. oleifera?

Brassica napus subsp. oleifera prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Brassica napus subsp. oleifera need?

Brassica napus subsp. oleifera is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Brassica napus subsp. oleifera hardy in the UK?

Brassica napus subsp. oleifera has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Brassica napus subsp. oleifera?

Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds.

More in the Brassica genus

Browse all Brassica →