FoodFood InformationHerbs&Spice
NASTURTIUM (Tropaeolum species)
Nasturtiums are native to Central and South America and grow wild in someof the sandy California beach areas. There are two species which are mostoften grown in herb gardens. T. majus has long stems that will trail overthe ground or climb to 6 feet by coiling its leaf stalks around an uprightsupport. I. minus is more dwarfed and compact, growing to about 15 inches.Both of these species have round, shield shaped, bright green leaves growingon long stalks which are attached to the center of the leaves. The flowersare broad and shaped like a horn with a long spur at one end and openingout into a bell shape at the other. Their colors range from maroon, red-brown,orange, yellow, and red, to creamy white. There are both single and doubleflowered forms. Nasturtiums have a distinctive appearance, and though perennialthey are most often treated as annuals.
Nasturtiums are easy to grow in most soils that have good drainage, butthey really thrive in soil that is sandy and exposed to the sun for a goodpart of the day. Sow seeds in the early spring when there is no danger offrost. They grow and bloom quickly and will often re-seed themselves.
The climbing and trailing kinds will cover fences, banks, stumps, and rocks.Use dwarf species for bedding, to cover fading bulb foliage, and generallyquick flower color. They also make good container specimens and house plants.
Nasturtium leaves and flowers have a peppery flavor like watercress andare often used in salads. The un
ripened seed pods can be pickled and used as a substitute for capers.