Oilseed rape : Brassica Napus
Plant : Oilseed rape has become a key feature of the beekeeping calendar and landscape in rural Northumberland. It is mostly autumn sown in the region, which flowers in early spring. Honey bees will travel 2 km or more for its nectar and pollen. Although it is grown as a commercial crop it is common as a weed on roadsides and arable land. The stems reach a height of 100 cm, with bright yellow flowers appearing on the top sections, which yield a dark 60 mm long seed pod.
Flower : Autumn sown Oilseed rape flowers between March and June. The flower has four petals, which form the regular crucifix arrangement typical of the family. There are four shorter sepals, 4 stamens and the ovary is superior..
Pollen : The pollen load of Oilseed rape is yellow. The grain is round, although the pores can give it a triangular appearance. It is approximately 27 um across and there are three furrow type apertures. The surface is pitted and the exine is a medium thickness, with beading.
Click here to return to plants for bees index.