The Wonderful World of Nasturtium: Benefits, Uses, and Growing Tips

Discover the Vibrant Versatility of Nasturtium

Nasturtium, with its bright and peppery blooms, is more than just a pretty face in your garden. Not only are these versatile plants renowned for their culinary uses, but they are also celebrated for their health benefits and ease of cultivation. Moreover, their adaptability makes them a popular choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious cook, nasturtiums offer a delightful blend of beauty and utility. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything from the botanical background of nasturtiums to practical tips on how you can use them in your kitchen and garden.

What is Nasturtium?

Nasturtiums, belonging to the genus Tropaeolum, encompass roughly 80 species of annual and perennial herbaceous flowering plants. Among these, Tropaeolum majus is the most commonly cultivated species in gardens. These plants are not only easily recognizable by their vibrant blooms in shades of red, orange, and yellow, but also by their round, green leaves that resemble lily pads.

Originating from South America, these plants were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. They quickly gained popularity in gardens, not only for their decorative appeal but also for their hardy nature. Furthermore, gardeners especially favor them for their ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, making them an ideal choice for areas where other plants might struggle.

Botanical Characteristics

• Flowers: The flowers of this plant are trumpet-shaped and bloom in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and occasionally even mahogany.
• Leaves: The leaves are large and round, almost circular, with a smooth texture and a central stem that attaches directly to the back of the leaf.
• Growth Habit: Nasturtiums can grow as bushy plants with trailing stems that are perfect for hanging baskets, or as climbers that can cover trellises and fences.

Benefits of This green gold

Nasturtiums offer numerous health benefits that make them a valuable addition to any diet:

• Rich in Nutrients: These plants are a good source of vitamins C and D, iron, manganese, and flavonoids.
• Natural Antibiotic Properties: High levels of benzyl isothiocyanate provide potent antimicrobial properties, effective against a range of bacterial strains.
• Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: The presence of unique compounds like anthocyanins and polyphenols helps reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress.

Nasturtiums offer numerous health benefits, such as being rich in nutrients and having natural antibiotic properties. Similarly, Mullein Syrup is known for its soothing effects on respiratory conditions, providing a natural remedy for coughs and colds.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Historically, various South American tribes utilized these plants not only as a food source but also for medicinal purposes, treating a wide range of ailments. Later, in the Victorian era, they became associated with conquest, a symbolic reflection of their vigorous and expansive growth.

Culinary Uses of Leaves, Flowers and Seeds

In the kitchen, nasturtiums are celebrated for their vibrant, peppery flavor, making them an excellent addition to salads, sandwiches, and herbal butter. Additionally, the entire plant is edible, offering versatility in culinary applications.

• Flowers: Add a burst of color and spice to green salads or use as an edible garnish for cakes and pastries.
• Leaves: The peppery leaves can be used much like arugula or incorporated into fresh green pestos.
• Seeds: When pickled, the seeds serve as a fantastic substitute for capers.

If you enjoy experimenting with edible flowers, you might also want to try using daisies in your culinary creations. For more ideas on how to incorporate daisies into your meals, check out our article on The Benefits of Daisies for Health and Cuisine and discover new ways to enhance your dishes with these delightful blooms.

Nasturtium Pesto Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups nasturtium leaves, washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted (or nuts of your choice/non)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

    

• Instructions:
  • In a food processor, combine nasturtium leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped.
  • With the motor running, slowly add olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth.
  • Add Parmesan cheese and pulse to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Growing Nasturtiums

Growing nasturtiums is straightforward, making them an ideal choice for novice gardeners or those new to cultivating edible plants. To help you get started, here’s how to successfully cultivate these vibrant plants in your garden:

1. Planting: Sow seeds directly into the soil in spring, after the last frost. Nasturtiums prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
2. Soil: They are not fussy about soil and can grow in poor soil, but well-draining conditions are essential.
3. Watering: Water regularly, but be careful not to over-water as this can dilute their flavor and inhibit flower production.
4. Pests: While generally pest-resistant, watch out for aphids and caterpillars, which can be controlled naturally with soapy water or neem oil.

Advanced Growing Tips:

• Companion Planting: Nasturtiums are excellent companions in the garden. They can help deter pests like aphids and beetles from more sensitive plants like tomatoes and cucumbers.
• Succession Planting: To ensure a continuous supply, plant seeds at intervals throughout the spring and early summer.

Preserving Nasturtiums

To enjoy nasturtiums year-round, consider these preservation methods:

• Drying: Hang the flowers and leaves in a dry, ventilated space to dry them for teas or homemade spice mixes.
• Pickling: Pickle the seeds to make “poor man’s capers.”

How to Eat Nasturtiums

Every part of the nasturtium plant is edible. Here are some tips for eating nasturtiums:

• Leaves: Add raw to salads for a peppery taste.
• Flowers: Use as a garnish on desserts or cocktails for a touch of elegance.
• Seeds: Collect seeds at the end of the season and pickle them, or use them as a spicy addition to dishes.

Conclusion

Nasturtiums are a delightful addition to both your garden and kitchen. Easy to grow and beneficial for your health, these vibrant plants can effortlessly spice up your meals and brighten your outdoor space. Try incorporating this amazing flower into your next garden project or meal to fully appreciate its remarkable versatility and bold flavor.

Thanks for reading! Stay connected with us on Facebook for the latest updates, Instagram for beautiful snapshots and behind-the-scenes content, and YouTube for meditation, calming videos, nature sceneries, and healthy cooking videos. Join our Health and Nature Life community and let’s journey together towards a healthier, more natural lifestyle!