Ball-turnip
Rapistrum rugosum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
MO
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ball-turnip is a short annual wildflower that produces small yellow flowers from May through July. This European native has become naturalized and thrives in partial shade with minimal water needs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ball-turnip takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Non-native species may be discouraged
- Annual growth pattern can appear inconsistent
- May be perceived as weedy by neighbors
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources but limited long-term wildlife habitat.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ball-turnip need?
- Ball-turnip grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Ball-turnip bloom?
- Ball-turnip blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Ball-turnip native?
- Ball-turnip (Rapistrum rugosum) is native to MO, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Ball-turnip attract?
- Ball-turnip draws bees and beetles.
- Is Ball-turnip HOA-friendly?
- Ball-turnip takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Ball-turnip? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz