Brassica carinata

Brassica carinata (Ethiopian rape, Ethiopian mustard, Abyssinian mustard) is a member of the genus Brassica. It is believed to be a hybrid between Brassica nigra and Brassica oleracea. Although Brassica carinata is cultivated as an oilseed crop in Ethiopia, it has high levels of undesirable glucosinolates and erucic acid. The closely related Brassica napus (Rapeseed) is considered a better oilseed crop in comparison. The plant has a mild flavor, and is eaten as a leaf vegetable. The flowers attract honey bees to collect pollen and nectar. It is known as yabesha gomen in Amharic. Named varieties include Texsel, which is particularly adapted to temperate climates. Brassica carinata has been used to develop an aviation biofuel for jet engines. On October 29, 2012, the first flight of a jet aircraft powered completely by biofuel, made from Brassica carinata, was completed. The byproduct of Brassica carinata oil production is utilized in protein meal for animal fodder.