The colored rapeseed flowers. [Photo/xsnet.cn]

A spectacular sight is unfolding as rapeseed flowers blossom in a myriad of colors inside the greenhouse at the agriculture science park in Xiaoshan district, Hangzhou.

Led by the research team of Xianghu Laboratory, innovative breeding techniques are employed to create rapeseed flowers in shades of peach pink, milky white, purple, and orange.

According to Zhang Dongqing, head of the research team, precision breeding methods are utilized to recombine different color genes, resulting in a diverse array of rapeseed flower colors. The team has already developed nine varieties of colorful rapeseed, including both tall and dwarf types.

The newly-cultivated colorful rapeseed varieties boast yields and oil content comparable to traditional varieties. However, their main advantage lies in their enhanced ornamental and economic value.

The colored rapeseed flowers. [Photo/xsnet.cn]

Zhang explains, "Colorful rapeseeds exhibit large and vibrant petals and a rich fragrance. The visual impact of the different colors is quite striking. Additionally, the compact dwarf varieties offer advantages such as branching, strong lodging resistance, and high ornamental value, diversifying the applications of rapeseed."

Moving forward, Zhang and her team plan to demonstrate the new varieties in various regions. She notes, "With rapeseed's high reproduction rate, planting extensive areas with the colorful varieties is no longer a challenge."