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Description
Camelina microcarpa, commonly known as small-fruited camelina or littlepod false flax, is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Western North America and can be found in many other parts of the world, such as Europe and Asia. The plant can grow up to 70 cm tall and has small yellow flowers that bloom from May to August. Camelina microcarpa is known for its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and is used in the production of cooking oil and biodiesel.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Camelina |
Appearance
The leaves of Camelina microcarpa are alternate and lanceolate, measuring up to 6 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The stem is erect, hairy, and branched, with a diameter of up to 2 mm. The flowers are small, yellow, and measure about 4-5 mm in diameter. They bloom in terminal clusters from May to August. The fruit is a cylindrical silique that measures up to 3 cm in length and contains small brown seeds that are about 1 mm in diameter. The seeds are rich in oil and are used for the production of cooking oil and biodiesel.
Care Guide
Camelina microcarpa is easy to grow and requires minimal care. Here are some guidelines:
- Water: Camelina microcarpa does not require much water and can tolerate drought. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.
- Fertilization: Camelina microcarpa does not require much fertilizer. If necessary, apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Camelina microcarpa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
- Sunlight: Camelina microcarpa prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Camelina microcarpa can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Camelina microcarpa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause wilting. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Cabbage loopers: These green caterpillars can eat the leaves of the plant. Use Bacillus thuringiensis to control cabbage loopers.
- White rust: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a fungicide to control white rust.
Habitat
Camelina microcarpa is native to Western North America and can be found in many other parts of the world, such as Europe and Asia. It grows in a wide range of habitats, from dry grasslands to moist meadows. The plant is adapted to a semi-arid climate and can tolerate drought and cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Camelina microcarpa edible?
A: Yes, the seeds of Camelina microcarpa are edible and can be used as a source of cooking oil.
Q: What is the difference between Camelina microcarpa and Camelina sativa?
A: Camelina microcarpa has smaller seeds and is native to Western North America, while Camelina sativa has larger seeds and is native to Europe and Central Asia.
Q: What are the uses of Camelina microcarpa?
A: Camelina microcarpa is used for the production of cooking oil and biodiesel. It is also used as a cover crop and forage crop.
Q: Is Camelina microcarpa invasive?
A: No, Camelina microcarpa is not considered invasive. It is a native plant that is well-adapted to its natural habitat.
Related Plants
- Camelina sativa
- Brassica napus
- Brassica rapa
- Brassica juncea
- Sinapis alba
References
- USDA Plants Database: Camelina microcarpa
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: Camelina microcarpa
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Camelina microcarpa
- University of Minnesota Extension: Camelina: A New Oilseed Crop for Minnesota
