Bush Nasturtium, also known as Tropaeolum polyphyllum is a flowering plant found in the Andes mountains. The word "bush" is spelled /bʊʃ/, with the "u" having a short vowel sound and the "sh" representing the consonant cluster. "Nasturtium" is spelled /nəˈstɜːtiəm/, with the first syllable having a schwa sound and the "ti" in the second syllable representing the "sh" sound. This plant is known for its bright yellow and orange flowers and its edible leaves that have a peppery taste.
Bush nasturtium, also known as Tropaeolum polyphyllum, is a flowering plant native to the Andean region of South America. It belongs to the family Tropaeolaceae and is closely related to the more commonly known garden nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus).
Bush nasturtium is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows as a compact, low-growing bush. It reaches a height of around 30 centimeters and spreads horizontally to form a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are round or kidney-shaped, slightly succulent, and are usually bright green in color. The plant produces attractive flowers that vary in color from yellow to orange or reddish-orange. The flowers are small, with five petals and a spurred structure at the base, which is characteristic of the Tropaeolum genus.
Bush nasturtium is known for its adaptability and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, including poor or rocky soil. It is also relatively drought-tolerant and can survive in regions with low water availability. The plant is commonly grown as an ornamental species in gardens and landscapes, adding a vibrant splash of color.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, bush nasturtium is edible and has a slightly spicy or peppery flavor. The flowers, leaves, and young shoots are commonly used in culinary applications, such as salads and garnishes, due to their pleasing taste and eye-catching appearance.
Overall, bush nasturtium is a versatile and appealing plant that offers both decorative and culinary options, making it a popular choice among gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
The word "bush nasturtium" is a compound noun and its etymology can be traced back to the origins of its individual components.
- "Bush" is derived from the Middle English word "busche" which means "a woody plant". It further traces its roots to the Old French word "buisson" meaning "bush or thicket" and ultimately from the Latin word "buxus" referring to the boxwood tree.
- "Nasturtium" on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "nasturtium" which means "nose-twister". It was originally used to describe watercress due to its pungent taste and smell. Over time, "nasturtium" became a common name for plants in the Tropaeolum genus, which includes both the bush and climbing varieties.