Field Mustard
Brassica rapa
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Field Mustard (Brassica rapa) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Field Mustard as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Native alternatives to Field Mustard
Field Mustard is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 446 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrassica rapa, commonly known as field mustard or turnip, is an annual herb that grows 1-3 feet tall with yellow four-petaled flowers from April through June. This fast-growing plant produces edible leaves and roots, though it can spread readily by seed if not managed.
In an HOA neighborhood
Field Mustard takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Considered a weed by most HOAs
- Can self-seed aggressively
- Dies back completely as annual
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract bees and beneficial beetles during spring and early summer. Seeds may provide food for birds when allowed to mature.
Common questions
- How much sun does Field Mustard need?
- Field Mustard grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Field Mustard bloom?
- Field Mustard blooms in April, May, and June.
- Is Field Mustard toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Field Mustard as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Field Mustard attract?
- Field Mustard draws bees and beetles.
- Is Field Mustard HOA-friendly?
- Field Mustard takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Field Mustard? 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