Nasturtium

# Nasturtium

## Section 1: Basic Information
Common Name: Nasturtium
Scientific Name: Nasturtium
Native Habitat: South America

## Section 2: History / Discovery / Cultivator

The name “Nasturtium” is derived from the Latin word “nasturcium,” meaning “nose-twister” or “something that turns the nose,” referring to the plant’s peppery aroma. While the scientific name *Nasturtium* refers to a specific genus of aquatic plants (watercress), the common garden nasturtium, scientifically classified in the genus *Tropaeolum*, is what we’re discussing here.

Originating in the Andes Mountains of South America, in countries like Peru and Colombia, nasturtiums have a long history of use by indigenous peoples. They were valued for their edible flowers, leaves, and seed pods, which added a spicy kick to their diet. The plants also held medicinal properties and were used to treat various ailments.

European explorers encountered nasturtiums in the 16th century and brought them back to Europe. They quickly gained popularity in gardens across the continent. The flowers were admired for their vibrant colors, ranging from fiery orange and red to sunny yellow, and their unique, spurred shape.

Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, initially classified nasturtiums within the *Tropaeolum* genus in the 18th century. The ease of cultivation and the plant’s versatility contributed to its widespread adoption. It was grown not only for ornamental purposes but also for its culinary uses, becoming a popular ingredient in salads, garnishes, and even pickles.

Throughout the centuries, nasturtiums have been cultivated and hybridized to create a wide range of cultivars with different flower colors, plant sizes, and growth habits. Some varieties are compact and bushy, ideal for containers, while others are trailing and perfect for hanging baskets or ground cover.

The plant’s peppery flavor and visual appeal have solidified its spot as a culinary and ornamental favorite. Its simple growth requirements and colorful blooms, mean it’s easily found in gardens globally today. The plant has also been used as a companion plant because its scent deters certain pests.

## Section 3: Plant Care Summary

## Section 4: Botanical Insights

### Adaptations
Nasturtiums are adapted to a variety of conditions, contributing to their ease of growth. One notable adaptation is their ability to thrive in relatively poor soil. Unlike many flowering plants, they don’t require rich, heavily fertilized soil. This allows them to survive and flower in less-than-ideal conditions. Their peppery taste is also a natural deterrent against some herbivores. Finally, the spurred shape of the flower allows it to be easily accessible to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

### Propagation Methods
Nasturtiums are most commonly propagated from seed. The large seeds are easy to handle and germinate readily. Direct sowing is a simple and effective method, especially in warmer climates. Seeds can also be started indoors and transplanted after the risk of frost has passed. Stem cuttings can also be used, although this method is less common. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, non-flowering stems and rooted in water or well-draining potting mix.

### Toxicology
While generally considered non-toxic, ingestion of large quantities of nasturtium leaves or flowers can cause mild digestive upset in some individuals. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The peppery flavor can also be irritating to the mouth and throat. While generally safe for cats and dogs, it is still recommended to prevent them from ingesting large amounts.

## Section 5: Common Problems

### Pests:
* Aphids
* Cabbage whitefly
* Spider mites

### Diseases:
* Bacterial leaf spot
* Fungal leaf spot
* Mosaic virus

### Other:
* Yellowing leaves: Often caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
* Lack of flowers: Can be due to overly rich soil (too much nitrogen) or insufficient sunlight.
* Leggy growth: Insufficient sunlight causes the plant to stretch towards the light source.

## Section 6: Rarity & Value

### Rarity:
While the common garden nasturtium is not rare, certain cultivars with unique flower colors or foliage patterns can be harder to find and considered somewhat rare by plant collectors.

### Value:
The value of nasturtiums is primarily as an ornamental and edible plant. They are inexpensive and widely available. Factors that can affect the value of a particular specimen include the uniqueness of the cultivar, the size of the plant, and its overall health. Some heirloom varieties might also be more valued by collectors.

Learn how to grow and care for Nasturtium! Discover its history, care tips, common problems, and propagation methods for this vibrant edible flower.

Watercress

Basic Information Common Name: Watercress Scientific Name: Nasturtium officinale Native Habitat: Europe and Asia History / Discovery / Cultivator Watercress, Nasturtium officinale, boasts a history