Nasturtium, Spice
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a vigorous, climbing flowering plant in the family Tropaelaceae, native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It is commonly known as Garden Nasturtium, Indian Cress, Canary bird flower or Scottish flamethrower or Monks Cress. Nasturtium is cultivated both as an ornamental plant and as a medicinal plant. Nasturtium is a herbaceous climbing plant, growing to 1 m long or more. The peltate leaf is green, large, 5-18 cm across, with a 5-30 cm long petiole located near the middle of it. The long and coiling petioles help the plant climb and spread. The striking and mildly fragrant flowers are 6.5 cm wide, yellow, orange or red color, with a 2.5-3 cm long nectar spur at the rear. The fruit is a 2 cm broad, three-segmented seed pod. Each segment contains a single large seed, 1-1.5 cm long. Both the leaves and the flowers are edible and aromatic, imparting a peppery taste and adding colors to salads. The seeds can be used as a substitute for capers. Nasturtium grows best in full sun, well-drained soil and a cool temperature. It is best as hanging basket plants. Nasturtium can be an invasive plant or noxious weed if care is not taken to control the climbing or trailing habit of the plant.  Nasturtium Author: J-Luc (Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported) | ||
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