166 



AMERICAN HONEY PLANTS 



MUSTARD (Brassica campestris). 



Figure 97 shows the common yellow mustard (Brassica campestris), 

 which is common all over North America and in Europe. The black mus- 

 tard (B. nigra) also has a very wide distribution in Europe and America. 

 There are about 50 species, including the closely related cultivated varie- 



Fig. 97 



ties of cabbage, turnips, rutabagas and mustard. All produce some nec- 

 tar, and in some localities they are an important source of honey. In 

 parts of California, notably the Lompoc Valley, mustard is grown com- 

 mercially for seed; much honey is stored from this source. The honey 

 is, said to be light in color and mild in flavor. Apparently there is much 

 variation in the amount of nectar, according to climatic conditions. In 



