Canola's history goes back to the rapeseed plant, but canola and rapeseed are not the same Because canola and rapeseed have different chemical compositions, the names cannot be used interchangeably. Canola is an oilseed crop, which is grown primarily in regions of Western Canada, with some acreage being planted in Ontario and the Pacific Northwe...... Found on http://whatscookingamerica.net/Glossary/C.htm