Guizotia abyssinica is an erect, stout, branched annual herb, grown for its edible oil and seed.

[4] Recent studies have revealed the regional genetic diversity of some noug populations grown in Ethiopia based on RAPD and AFLP markers.

It bears a fairly thick, adherent seed coat and can be stored for up to a year without deterioration.

Treated niger seed may germinate but would typically be stunted, limiting its spread and offering less of a threat to native plants.

[8] The seed, technically a fruit called an achene, is often sold as birdseed as it is a favourite of finches, especially the goldfinch and the greenfinch (Chloris).

(includes mesquites), Solanum viarum (tropical soda apple), Striga spp.

In 2002, the 'EarlyBird' variety of Guizotia abyssinica with a crop maturity of 65 days was developed and adapted to grow in the United States.

Guizotia abyssinica is not a Federal noxious weed and is now in commercial agricultural production in the United States often grown as a first or second crop before or after wheat, maize, soybeans, and cucurbits.

The presence of linoleic acid varies from 45.0 to 65.0% depending on harvested soil conditions and seed variety.

In Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, niger seeds (called valisalu/valasulu in Telugu, uchellu/gurellu in Kannada, and karale in Marathi) are used to make a dry chutney, which is used as an accompaniment with breads such as chapati.

In Ethiopia, an infusion made from roasted and ground niger seeds, sugar and water is used in treating common colds.