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Crambe orientalis

Crambe orientalisfam. Brassicaceae
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edibleperennialculinaryedibleedible leafedible rootperennial
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Crambe orientalis (Crambe orientalis) — botanical photograph
Pl. 0506 — Crambe orientalis
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Overview

Crambe orientalis, commonly known as Oriental rape, is a perennial plant native to regions including Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Lebanon-Syria, North Caucasus, Palestine, Tajikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. Known for its edible leaves, roots, and stems, Crambe orientalis is valued in culinary applications, particularly as a condiment. Its ability to grow well in diverse soil conditions and various environments makes it an adaptable choice for gardeners and cooks. While not medicinal, it is important to handle the plant with care, as some members of the Brassicaceae family can cause skin irritation.

Quick answers

What is Crambe orientalis?

Crambe orientalis, commonly known as Oriental rape, is a perennial plant native to regions including Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Lebanon-Syria, North Caucasus, Palestine, Tajikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Compare with:Arabis serrata→Cardamine glacialis→Cardamine nasturtioides→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Crambe orientalis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 1.2 meters tall as a perennial. For propagation, you can use seeds or division of established plants. Harvest the leaves, roots, and stems for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Crambe orientalis for the first time

7steps

Start with Skip as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining, light to heavy, and rich in organic matter.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep and 30-45 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for pests and diseases, treating if necessary.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with compost once a year in early spring.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves to maintain plant health and appearance. Harvest stems for cooking when they reach 30-45 cm tall.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesRootStem
Edible uses: Condiment
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

12 native · 1 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 12 native· 1 introduced
Europe1 region
native (1)Russia
Asia8 regions
native (8)AfghanistanIranIraqKazakhstanPalestineTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Lebanon-Syria, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus
introduced:Kirgizstan
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Crambe orientalis (Crambe orientalis) — botanical photograph
Crambe orientalis (Crambe orientalis)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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