Camelina @ Agricultural Marketing Resource Center

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Camelina @ Agricultural Marketing Resource Center

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Camelina is an oilseed that is getting attention for its Omega 3 nutritional attributes and as a possible, affordable source for biodiesel. It contains about 34 to 36 percent Omega 3 oil. Camelina is an annual that originated in Northern Europe. A member of the mustard family, it is also known more as a weed with names like false flax, gold of pleasure and leindotter.

Camelina is well suited for marginal soils. According to Montana State University research, camelina has a lower break-even cost compared to wheat and canola. The seed can be broadcast or drilled. Montana State University trials indicate seed rates of 2.5 to 3 pounds per acre. The seeds are dense and small at 345,000 to 465,000 seeds per pound. Yields vary depending on soils and rainfall. Based on Montana State research, camelina will average 1,800 to 2,200 pounds per acre under 16 to 18 inch rainfalls. Yields drop with less rainfall and increase when using irrigation. Montana State University suggests including camelina in a three- or four-year crop rotation. Camelina byproducts are being studied as feed sources for fish, chickens and cattle. In addition to Montana, camelina is grown in Slovenia, Ukraine, China, Finland, Germany and Austria.

Camelina_sativa

Camelina_sativa

Ancient Plant May Become New Source of Biofuel

Researchers are all abuzz over a promising new source of biofuel that flourished almost 3,500 years ago in Europe. Camelina, if planted on a large scale on marginal farmland from eastern Washington to North Dakota, could provide a significant source of clean energy....Unlike other potential biofuel feedstocks like canola, camelina can grow in arid conditions, can produce more oil from its seeds for a lower price and doesn't require the excessive use of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides.

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Ancient Plant May Become New Source of Biofuel

MSU Researchers Say New Crop Could Produce Affordable Biodiesel

Growing interest in the Camelina plant due to its high oil content. It is interesting because of high Omega-3 fatty acids, making it of interest to heath food lovers, and because of the growing interest in biodiesel. Montana's cool and dry climate is well suited to growing this plant.

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MSU Researchers Say New Crop Could Produce Affordable Biodiesel

Camelina: A Promising Low-Input Oilseed

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Camelina: A Promising Low-Input Oilseed

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A scientific paper covering the Camelina plant. It is attractive because it can grow on marginal land, and produces a high oil content. The paper is over 10 years old and only covers interest in edible oils, but today there is growing interest in using oils to produce biodiesel.