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Tropaeolum (Nasturtium)

Common Nasturtium, Indian Cress, Mexican Cress, Peruvian Cress, Garden Nasturtium, Flame Nasturtium, Canary Creeper

Tropaeolum, Common Nasturtium, Indian Cress, Mexican Cress, Peruvian Cress, Garden Nasturtium, Flame Nasturtium, Canary Creeper

Among the easiest and most versatile flowers to grow in the garden, Nasturtium is a showy annual or perennial plant with flamboyant flowers and attractive parasol-like leaves. Flowers and leaves are edible and make an attractive addition to salads. They attract beneficial insects to the garden, making Nasturtium a wonderful companion plant for fruits and vegetables.

All you need to know about Nasturtium

Nasturtium belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family, which includes about 80 species of annual and perennial herbaceous flowering plants native to South and Central America.

Annual Nasturtium

  • Tropaeolum majus (Garden Nasturtium, Indian Cress) is a popular annual or short-lived perennial with creeping or sprawling stems that command attention in any landscape. It boasts a profusion of long-stalked, funnel-shaped flowers, about 2-3 in. wide (5-7 cm), in a wide range of hot colors. The blossoms have an unusual and refreshing fragrance and are edible. They stand out against the pretty foliage of rounded, parasol-like leaves.
  • Tropaeolum minus (Dwarf Nasturtium) is a bushy, compact, low-growing annual with rounded, shield-shaped leaves and rich orange or reddish-orange flowers, sometimes with purple veins or with red blotches. Dwarf Nasturtium is a mini version of Garden Nasturtium and is a better choice for small gardens.
  • These easy-to-grow, warm-season annual plants are perennial in hardiness zones 9-11.

Perennial Nasturtium

  • Tropaeolum peregrinum (Canary Creeper) is a frost-tender perennial climber that boasts a profusion of spurred, bright yellow flowers from summer until the first frosts. Reminiscent of the wings of canaries, they contrast nicely against the foliage of pale blue-green, deeply five-lobed leaves. Canary Creeper is hardy to zones 10-11 and grown as an annual in cool areas.
  • Tropaeolum speciosum (Flame Nasturtium) is a slender herbaceous climber with a profusion of brilliant, long-spurred, scarlet flowers from summer to fall. Creating a spectacular floral display for months, they contrast nicely against the foliage of dainty, deep green, clover-like leaves. In the fall, the fiery blossoms are followed by a striking display of sapphire-blue berries held in red sepals. Flame Nasturtium is hardy to zones 8-11. It adds a tropical touch to gardens with cool, moist summers.
  • Tropaeolum tricolor (Tricolor Nasturtium) is a summer-dormant, tuberous, perennial climber with a profusion of tricolor flowers from winter to early summer. They create a spectacular floral display for months and contrast nicely against the soft, bright green, deeply lobed leaves. Tricolor Nasturtium is hardy to zones 8-10. It is one of the longest flowering species of Tropaeolum. It is mostly cultivated as an ornamental.

Guide Information

Hardiness 2 - 11
Heat Zones 1 - 12
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Genus Tropaeolum
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height 1' - 10' (30cm - 3m)
Spread 1' - 3' (30cm - 90cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Drought, Deer
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Landscaping Ideas Ground Covers, Patio And Containers, Edging, Beds And Borders, Walls And Fences
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage
Tropaeolum majus (Nasturtium)
Tropaeolum peregrinum (Canary Creeper)
Tropaeolum speciosum (Flame Nasturtium)
  • Depending on the variety, Nasturtiums can form a low bushy mound or trail and climb by twining stems. The bush types, from 12 in. tall (30 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm), are great selections for beds and borders, rock gardens, edgings, ground covers, or in mass plantings. The climbing types, up to 6-10 ft. tall (180-300 cm), can quickly cover fences, banks, or stumps.
  • Nasturtium blooms from winter through spring in mild winter areas and from summer to fall in colder climates.
  • The flowers are long-stalked, funnel-shaped, about 2-3 in. wide (5-7 cm), ranging in color from creamy white to orange, mahogany, red, and yellow. The blossoms may be single or double and have an unusual and refreshing fragrance. They stand out against the pretty foliage of rounded, parasol-like leaves.
  • Nasturtiums rank among the most common edible flowers. The delicate blossoms have a sweet, peppery taste similar to watercress. Leaves and unripe seed pods add a citrusy and peppery flavor to salads. Flower buds contain mustard oil and may be used for seasonings. The flowers add eye-catching beauty to the plate and can be used to garnish salads, platters, and savory dishes.
  • Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators are drawn to the flowers, making Nasturtium a valuable addition to the vegetable garden. Nasturtium is a good companion plant for beans, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, kale, melon, pumpkin, and radish.
  • In addition, Nasturtium can be used as a trap crop, trapping pests such as aphids and giving a more appealing and delicious meal than nearby vegetable crops.
  • Nasturtiums are unfussy plants. They perform best in full sun in poor, well-drained soils. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer areas.
  • The plants thrive on neglect and few pests or diseases bother them. They are no favorite to deer.
  • Nasturtium self-seeds readily, keeping a presence in the garden. In warm climates, it blooms and seeds all year round and is considered invasive in many of those areas.
  • Nasturtium is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Tropaeolum majus ‘Black Velvet’ (Nasturtium)
Tropaeolum majus ‘Salmon Baby’ (Nasturtium)
Tropaeolum tricolor (Tricolor Nasturtium)

When to Plant Nasturtium Flowers

  • Seeds can be sown directly in the garden after your last spring frost date. Soil temperatures should ideally be between 55-65°F (12°-18°C).
  • Start seeds indoors about 2-4 weeks before the last frost for earlier bloom.
  • Nasturtium germinates quickly, sprouting within 10-14 days and blooming in about 6 weeks.

Where to Plant Nasturtium Flowers

  • Nasturtium thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily) in poor, well-drained soils. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer areas.
  • Rich, fertile soils are not recommended as they yield more foliage but reduce flowering. Nasturtiums do better in soils of moderate to low fertility.
  • Nasturtium relishes cooler temperatures (in the 70sºF or 20sºC) and often sulks in extremely dry or humid conditions.
  • Nasturtium is an excellent choice for beds and borders, edgings, as a ground cover, or in mass plantings. It is also suitable for kitchen gardens and containers and looks great in the cottage garden.
  • Butterflies, bees, and other pollinators and beneficial insects are drawn to the flowers, making them a valuable addition to the vegetable garden.
  • In addition, Nasturtium can be used as a trap crop, trapping pests such as aphids and giving a more appealing and delicious meal than nearby vegetable crops.
  • Nasturtium is a good companion plant for beans, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, kale, melon, pumpkin, and radish.

How to Plant Nasturtium Flowers

  • When sowing directly into the garden, clear the area of weeds, then rake the surface to a fine, crumbly texture.
  • Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep (1 cm) and 10-12 inches apart (25-30 cm) in the garden.
  • Water thoroughly after planting.
  • Keep the soil moist until the seeds sprout, which should take about 10-14 days.
Tropaeolum majus ‘Orange Troika’ (Nasturtium)
Tropaeolum minus ‘Ladybird Cream Purple Spot’ (Nasturtium)
Tropaeolum minus ‘Ladybird Rose’ (Nasturtium)

Caring for Nasturtium Flowers

Water and Moisture

  • Water regularly throughout the growing season.
  • Nasturtium is somewhat drought tolerant but will perform better in moist soil. If water-stressed, fewer flowers and leaves will be produced.

Fertilizer

  • Nasturtium does not need any fertilizer.

Deadheading / Pruning

  • Deadheading will promote more blooms.
  • If the flowers are not deadheaded, the plants may self-sow.
  • Nasturtium may need to be trimmed back occasionally over the growing season. This stimulates new growth and flower production.

Harvesting

  • Only Nasturtium grown organically can be eaten. Never eat Nasturtium plant parts grown with pesticides or chemicals.
  • Pick the edible leaves with or without their stalk when they are young and small.
  • Clip flower buds with scissors right below the point where they join the stem.
  • Clip the edible flowers with scissors when they are at their peak freshness – before they are fully open or starting to wilt. Harvest them the day they will be used.
  • Snip the seed pods from the stems using scissors while they are still green. They can be used as a substitute for capers. Pickle them in vinegar.
  • Leaves or stems can be stored for a few days in the fridge.
  • When serving edible flowers fresh, add them to your dish just before serving.
  • Collect Nasturtium seeds when they are ripe, dry them, and store them in a paper envelope in a cool and dark place. In mild areas, Nasturtium is also likely to self-sow and volunteer year after year.

Propagating

  • Nasturtium is propagated easily from seed or cuttings.

Pest and Diseases

  • Nasturtium has no serious pest or disease issues. However, some problems may occasionally occur:
  • Aphids: Leaves, stems, and buds distorted.
  • Leaf miners: Leaves with tan or brown blotches or serpentine tunnels.
  • Bacterial wilt: Plant yellows, wilts, and dies.
  • Flea beetles: Leaves with many tiny holes.

Recommended Companion Plants

Helianthus annuus (Common Sunflower)
Cosmos Flowers
Zinnia elegans (Zinnia)
Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender)
Tagetes (Marigold)
Aster novi-belgii (New York Aster)

Recommended Guides

Nasturtium: Plant Care and Growing Guide
18 Best Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Companion Planting With Annuals
Edible Flowers: 16 Varieties to Beautify Your Garden and Plate
Wonderful Plants That Repel Insects
Complete Companion Planting Guide
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Tropaeolum (Nasturtium)
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 2 - 11
Heat Zones 1 - 12
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Genus Tropaeolum
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height 1' - 10' (30cm - 3m)
Spread 1' - 3' (30cm - 90cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Drought, Deer
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Landscaping Ideas Ground Covers, Patio And Containers, Edging, Beds And Borders, Walls And Fences
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Tropaeolum (Nasturtium)
Compare Now
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Tropaeolum (Nasturtium)

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