SafePlants

Brassica nigra: Black Mustard

Brassica nigra, commonly known as black mustard, is an annual plant recognized for its seeds, which are widely used as a spice.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is an annual herb growing to between 40 and 80 cm (16-32 inches), but can reach up to 8 feet tall.
• Black mustard is cultivated for its seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Brassica nigra (L.) W.D.J. Koch
• Common Name: Black Mustard
• Family: Brassicaceae (also known as Cruciferae), the cabbage or mustard family
• Synonyms:
  • Sinapis nigra
  • Sisymbrium nigrum
  • Brassica brachycarpa
  • Brassica sinapioides
• Sanskrit: rajakshavak
• Marathi: Kali Mohari

Distribution and Habitat

• Originates from the Middle East and possibly northern Africa.
• Widely cultivated and naturalized in Eurasia.
• Commonly found along pathways, in parks, and on abandoned building sites in urban areas, such as London and other major cities in the U.K.
• Also present in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, and VT in the United States.

Ecological Role

• Considered a weedy plant.
• In coastal grasslands, dense stands of black mustard outcompete native vegetation.
• Exhibits allelopathic properties, inhibiting the growth of other plants.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Annual herb/forb.
• Grows to a height of 2-8 feet (approximately 60-240 cm), branching occasionally.
• Features elongating clusters of 1/3 inch yellow flowers with 4 petals.
• Produces erect seed pods, in contrast to the more horizontal and hairy pods of white mustard.
• Black mustard seeds are tiny and strongly flavored.

Traditional Uses

• Seeds are commonly used as a spice in cooking, particularly in Indian cuisine.
• Used to make mustard oil.
• Historically used medicinally in plasters and poultices.

Quirky Facts

• Black mustard seeds are more rare because they require hand harvesting.