Mustard Greens, Indian Mustard, Chinese Mustard, Sareptian Mustard
Brassica juncea integrifolia strumata
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The leaves are edible raw or cooked, providing a spicy flavor. It can be used as a cover crop for soil improvement, suppressing weeds and preventing erosion. The seeds can be used to produce mustard oil. Certain cultivars offer varying levels of heat and leaf texture. 'Southern Giant Curled' is a popular variety known for its large, crinkled leaves.
Permapeople description
Large Petiole Mustard is a variety of Brassica juncea with large, fleshy petioles (leaf stalks). It is cultivated for its edible petioles and leaves.
Botanical description
Brassica juncea integrifolia strumata is an annual plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It features deeply lobed, often ruffled leaves that are typically green but can vary in color depending on the cultivar. The plant produces yellow flowers in racemes, followed by seed pods. It grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet. The integrifolia variety signifies entire leaf margins, while strumata suggests a swollen or enlarged structure, possibly referring to the root or stem base. The plant is adapted to temperate climates and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Companion planting
Favorable companions include beans, carrots, cucumbers, dill, garlic, lettuce, marigolds, nasturtiums, onions, rosemary, and thyme. Avoid planting near strawberries.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through sowing seeds directly into the garden bed or starting them indoors and transplanting them later. It self-seeds readily.
History and traditions
Mustard greens have been cultivated and consumed for centuries, originating in the Himalayan region. They have been a staple food in Indian, Chinese, and Southern American cuisines. Traditionally, they have been used medicinally for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In some cultures, mustard seeds symbolize faith and determination.
Usage calendar
Sowing: Spring or late summer for fall harvest. Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested continuously as needed throughout the growing season. Flowering: Typically in late spring or early summer. Seed Collection: Fall.