Brassica rapa - Flora of Qatar

Brassica campestris, Brassica dubiosa, Brassica napella, Brassica purpuraria, Brassica rutabaga

Common names

My notes

Brassica rapa L. is a plant consisting of various widely cultivated subspecies including the turnip (a root vegetable); the mizuna, napa cabbage, and cime di rapa (leaf vegetables); and the turnip rape (Brassica rapa subsp. oleifera, an oilseed which has many common names, including [annual] turnip rape, field mustard, bird rape, keblock, and colza).[+]

The oilseed is sometimes also called canola, which is one reason why it is sometimes confused with rapeseed oil, but this comes from a different Brassica species (Brassica napus). The oilseeds known as canola are sometimes particular varieties of Brassica rapa (termed Polish Canola) but usually the related species Brassica napus (rapeseed) and Brassica juncea (mustard greens).

In the 18th century the turnip and the oilseed-producing variants were seen as being different species by Carolus Linnaeus who named them B. rapa and B. campestris. 20th-century taxonomists found that the plants were cross fertile and thus belonged to the same species. Since the turnip had been named first by Linnaeus, the name Brassica rapa was adopted.

Many butterflies, including small white pollinate the B. rapa flowers.

AI-generated description

Brassica rapa, also known as field mustard or turnip rape, is an annual or biennial herb native to Europe and Asia. In Qatar, it has been found to grow wild in various regions, including the northern and central parts of the country. Studies have reported its presence in areas with moist soils, such as wadis (dry riverbeds) and agricultural fields. The plant's adaptability to Qatar's arid climate suggests its potential as a crop for local cultivation, particularly for its edible leaves, stems, and roots. However, further research is needed to fully explore its suitability and potential uses in Qatari agriculture.

AI-generated summary of observations

Observations of Brassica rapa in Qatar show that the plant grows in various locations, including roadsides and irrigated farms. On Salwa Road, dry fruits of the plant were found in April 2014. In Irkhaya Farms, flowers and plants were observed on multiple occasions between January and May 2015, indicating a prolonged growing season. The plant was also spotted near QTel Building in Education City in February 2015. The repeated sightings in Irkhaya Farms suggest that the plant thrives in areas with center-pivot irrigation, producing flowers and mature plants throughout the spring season. Flowers were observed in different stages, from budding to full bloom, indicating a continuous growth cycle.

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Acknowledgements

QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.

Brassica rapa L.

Synonyms