False Flax, Gold of Pleasure
camelina sativa
Also known as: ["Gold of Pleasure","Wild Flax","Camelina Oilseed"]
Overview
An annual plant in the mustard family, valued for its oil-rich seeds and historical use as a crop.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Camelina |
| Botanical Name: | Camelina sativa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam or sandy soil with moderate organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically light pruning after flowering or seed harvest.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on young plants.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH if unsure.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates frost but prefers mild conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; direct sow or start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Thin seedlings to 6–12 inches apart.
- Water gently.
Best Time: Spring, after last frost; seeds germinate best in cool soil (50–65°F/10–18°C).
Environment
Cool temperatures, consistent moisture, and full sun for seedlings.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or garden soil.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination in 7–14 days; mature plant in 60–90 days.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, soil, water spray bottle, labels.
Quick Tips
Sow thickly as germination rates can be variable; keep soil cool and moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or diseased stems at the base; thin overcrowded plants if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged stems if necessary.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Inspect plant; remove dead parts; sanitize tools; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift the plant; trim roots if pot-bound; replant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Not typically required for field-grown plants; container-grown plants may need repotting every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch around the base; cover plants during frost; choose frost-tolerant varieties if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced yield, or bolting (premature flowering due to heat).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCamelina sativa is not considered toxic to cats under normal circumstances. Similar to dogs, ingestion of large quantities of its seeds or oil may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the high fat content and potential antinutritional factors. The plant is not known to pose significant health risks to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicCamelina sativa is not considered toxic to dogs under normal circumstances. However, ingestion of large quantities of its seeds or oil may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the high fat content and potential antinutritional compounds. The plant is not known to pose significant health risks to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicCamelina sativa, commonly known as camelina or false flax, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of its seeds or oil may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of certain fatty acids and minor antinutritional factors. The plant is primarily cultivated for its oil, which is used in food and industrial applications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless consumed in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Camelina sativa edible?
A: Yes, its seeds are edible and can be pressed for oil or used as a nutritional supplement.
Q: Does Camelina sativa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowering habit.
Q: Is Camelina sativa drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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