GROWERS in lower rainfall zones have been urged to consider safflower crops, on the back of expanding global markets for pharmaceutical products.

Historically safflower has been grown for the oil and bird-seed markets, but demand is now increasing for food colouring, medicinal, cut-flower and pharmaceutical products made from the crop.

Adapted to lower rainfall zones where canola and sunflowers cannot be grown, safflower has produced average yields of 2.8 tonnes/ha in Australia.

Australian research scientist Dr Sue Knights said safflower had traditionally been used as a tactical crop to manage weeds and spread harvesting workloads.

Although considered a minor crop, safflower does have scope in cropping systems and a wide variety of end uses, Dr Knights said.

Australian Oilseeds Federation president Robert Green said safflower was a key oilseed in Australia, yet struggled to find a place.

Speaking at the 7th International Safflower conference at Wagga Wagga in NSW last week, Mr Green said safflower faced geographic challenges and competitive pressure from imports.

"With the move to healthy oils, safflower has a key part to play in the Australian industry and we are seeing how we can promote the crop's growth," he said.

Safflower is grown in 60 countries around the world, yet less than one million hectares are planted, producing 500,000 tonnes of seed a year.

The crop is suited to lower rainfall, late sowing and harvesting, is useful for weed and disease control and improves soil structure.

Safflower plants have a quick-growing tap root that is able to better use sub-soil moisture.

US grain buyer John Gilbert said safflower had a greater tolerance to seasonal drought and could also be sown late when too much rain prevented a full wheat planting.

Mr Gilbert, of Adams Grain, said safflower could be used as a break crop for cereals, starving out disease organisms by denying them a host plant.

"The crop requires little attention during the growing season, provided there is adequate soil moisture," he said.

India is the largest safflower producer, with 27 per cent of the world's production.

But low market prices and oil content, disease pressure and competition from cheap imported palm oil have resulted in declining production.

California, in the US, is the second-largest producer, with US growers achieving yields up to 4.5 tonnes/ha and oil content of 45 per cent.