Rape seed oil in a glass beaker. Oil seed rape is made from the plant oil seed rape (Brassica napus). Oil seed rape is grown widely in Europe as fodder for livestock and for its seeds, from which an edible oil is extracted. Fields of the plant appear brilliant yellow during the flowering season (a bouquet of flowers can be seen tied on the handle). As well as being used in cooking, the oil can be used as a fuel, as a lubricant, and in the manufacture of soap.