(8.3) FLORA and FAUNA - Wild Mustard Greens of the Ocklawaha River, Florida

Wild Mustard Greens of the Ocklawaha River, Florida

Wild Edibles of the Ocklawaha River Floodplain Swamp

Black Mustard

Brassica nigra

An Information, Opinion, Photos, & Sources Report

Compiled by Ocklawahaman Paul Nosca

With the assistance of A Cruising Down the River Captain Erika Ritter

Created: 21 February 2014

Last Revised: 29 May 2015

INTRODUCTION

Wild mustard plants (Black mustard, Brassica nigra) showing-off their bright yellow flowers are very plentiful during certain times of the year growing luxuriantly from the rich soils of the natural Ocklawaha River floodplain swamps between Sharpes Ferry Bridge and Eureka Lock & Dam. A fresh salad or a mess of cooked greens can be made from the leaves of the wild mustard. The flowers and tender stems seem to be edible also. Online searching should reveal more information about collecting and eating parts of the black mustard plant.

NOTE: Click-on individual photos to enlarge them!

Wild Black Mustard plant growing in the Ocklawaha River Floodplain Swamp

Photo by Capt. Erika Ritter

Wild Black Mustard plants growing in the Ocklawaha River Floodplain Swamp

Photo by Ocklawahaman Paul Nosca