Charlock (Sinapis arvensis)

Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Sinapis arvensis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from May to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in salads, where they add a piquant flavour. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; Somewhat hot, the young leaves are used as a flavouring in salads, where they add a piquant flavour.; Older leaves are used as a potherb.; It is best to use just the young shoots and leaves in the spring, older leaves are bitter.

Habitat & North American Range

Cultivated ground, usually on heavy calcareous soils. A serious weed of agriculture, especially in spring sown crops. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)