Agronomic Evaluation of Crambe as a Source of Oil¹

Abstract

Crambe ( Crambe abyssinica Hochst ex. R. E. Fries) seed oil is believed to have potential as a specialty lubricant. Ten crambe introductions representing the original germplasm available in the US were evaluated for agronomic potential in Indiana. Greater crambe yields were obtained in plots of narrower rows. Location and row spacing had nonsignificant affects on oil production. Differences among introductions for most agronomic attributes were nonsignificant. Results indicate a need for diverse crambe germplasm.