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About this seed
Black mustard (Rhamphospermum nigrum, formerly Brassica nigra) is a yellow-flowered annual of the cabbage family (Brassicaceae), reaching about 1.2 m. Our lab-protocol reference for its seed is germination at 15–25 °C.
Also known as: Rai (India), Mostaza negra (Spanish), Moutarde noire (French), Schwarzer Senf (German), Senape nera (Italian), Mostarda-preta (Portuguese), Gorchitsa chyornaya, Brassica nigra and Sinapis nigra (synonyms).
Germination temperature
The USDA genebank at Ames tests this species on blotters at alternating 25 °C (12 hours, with light) and 15 °C (12 hours, dark). Treat 15–25 °C as an approximate range for the species, not a result for this lot.
Sowing and growing
- Sow in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade; fall planting is recommended where winters are mild.
- Plants reach 60–120 cm tall and about 30–60 cm wide, with small four-petalled yellow flowers.
- Seed is dark brown to black and about 1 mm across.
What can go wrong
Ripe pods split and scatter the seed, so the plant self-sows readily. It is weedy and invasive in parts of the Pacific western United States and Michigan; cut flower stalks before the pods dry if you do not want volunteers, and check local rules where it could escape.
Culinary note
In Indian cooking the whole seeds are popped in hot oil or ghee; ground seeds with the coat removed are used as a spice.
FAQ
Is black mustard the same as Brassica nigra?
Yes. Brassica nigra is a synonym of the accepted name Rhamphospermum nigrum.
Will it come back on its own?
Yes, usually. It is an annual that self-seeds when pods are left to ripen.