How to Grow Camelina
Wikimedia Commons
Camelina
Camelina sativa
vegetableCamelina is a fast-growing oilseed crop in the Brassicaceae family, valued for its nutrient-rich seeds and oil. Also known as false flax, it produces small yellow flowers followed by tiny seed pods. This hardy, low-maintenance plant thrives in cool climates and is increasingly grown as a sustainable alternative to conventional oilseeds.
When should you plant Camelina in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Camelina timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Camelina
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Camelina
Around Jul 11≈ 85 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Camelina dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-7; prefers cooler climates and tolerates frost well
Sign up free to see if Camelina grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Camelina timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with cotyledons and first true leaves emerge within 7-10 days
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once true leaves appear.
Vegetative
3-4 weeksPlant develops a rosette of deeply lobed leaves; stems begin to elongate and branch
Minimal fertilizer needed; camelina is not a heavy feeder. Monitor for weeds and thin if needed. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues.
Flowering
3-4 weeksSmall, delicate yellow flowers appear in terminal racemes; plant reaches 12-24 inches tall
Light watering during this stage supports seed development. Avoid heavy nitrogen to prevent excessive vegetative growth at the expense of seeds.
Pod Development
3-4 weeksFlowers fade and small, round seed pods (siliques) form and gradually expand and mature
Water moderately if rainfall is scarce. Some plants may naturally lodge (bend over) without issue.
Harvest-Ready
Variable, typically 2-3 weeksPods turn brown and dry; seeds inside rattle in the pod when shaken. Plant may yellow overall.
Wait until pods are crisp and dry before harvesting to minimize seed loss. Cut or pull plants when 80% of pods are brown.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Row covers when seedlings are young; insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Camelina's rapid growth helps outpace damage.
-
Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap or beneficial insect introduction if populations spike.
-
and
(Plutella xylostella)
Row covers at planting; Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) sprays if larvae appear on foliage.
-
Ensure good air circulation; sulfur dust or neem oil in humid conditions.
Uses
Camelina Oil & Seeds
CulinaryCold-pressed camelina oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and can be used in cooking, salad dressings, or as a nutritional supplement. The seeds can be ground into meal or sprinkled on foods for a nutty flavor and nutritional boost. [source]
Anti-inflammatory & Cardiovascular Health
MedicinalCamelina oil's high linolenic acid content supports heart health and has traditional uses in supporting inflammation management. The oil is increasingly studied for its potential cardiovascular benefits. [source]
Biodiesel & Biofuel Production
HouseholdCamelina is cultivated at scale as a sustainable feedstock for biodiesel and biofuel production, offering an alternative to petroleum-based fuels with a lower environmental footprint than some conventional oilseeds. [source]
Cosmetics & Skincare
HouseholdCamelina oil is used in natural cosmetics, soaps, and moisturizers for its emollient and skin-conditioning properties. Its vitamin E content supports skin health and antioxidant protection. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeCamelina's delicate yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens and crop rotations that support beneficial insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when 80% of pods are brown and papery; pull or cut entire plants and hang upside down in a dry, airy location for 1-2 weeks. Thresh pods by hand, rubbing between palms or in a cloth to release seeds. Clean seeds by winnowing or using a fine sieve. Store dry seeds in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Camelina has been cultivated for thousands of years in Central Asia and Eastern Europe, and is sometimes called 'false flax' because it resembles true flax (Linum usitatissimum) but belongs to a different plant family.
- 🌱 The entire camelina plant, from seeds to oil to meal residue, is highly utilized: seeds are pressed for oil, the remaining meal is used as livestock feed, and even the residual plant biomass can be used for bioenergy or soil amendment.
- 🌱 Camelina is notably drought-tolerant and can thrive on marginal agricultural lands with minimal inputs, making it an increasingly popular crop for sustainable farming and climate-resilient agriculture initiatives.
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Camelina planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Camelina seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Camelina timeline →