Garden nasturtium is a flowering plant with a unique name that can be a bit tricky to spell. The word "garden" is straightforward, but "nasturtium" can be more complicated. Its pronunciation is "nəˈstəːʃəm" in IPA phonetic transcription. The "nə" is pronounced like "nuh," the "stəː" sounds like "stir," and "ʃəm" is pronounced like "shum." Remembering the "t" in "nasturtium" and its unusual "sh" sound can help with correct spelling. This beautiful plant is worth the extra effort to remember how to spell its name correctly.
Garden nasturtium, scientifically known as Tropaeolum majus, is a flowering plant native to South America and cultivated for its vibrant flowers, edible leaves, and seeds. It belongs to the family Tropaeolaceae and is commonly referred to as nasturtium, Indian cress, or simply tropaeolum.
Garden nasturtium is a herbaceous annual plant that typically grows as a trailing vine, but can also be trained to climb or act as a ground cover. It is characterized by its rounded leaves, which have a waxy texture and can vary in shape from round to shield-like. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of garden nasturtium, displaying vivid colors such as orange, yellow, and red. They are often funnel-shaped and have long, curving spurs at the base.
Cultivated as an ornamental plant, the garden nasturtium is highly valued for its decorative foliage and attractive blooms. However, it is also popular for its culinary uses. Both the leaves and the flowers of garden nasturtium are edible and impart a unique peppery taste to dishes. The unripe seeds, also known as "poor man's capers," can be pickled and used as a condiment. Additionally, garden nasturtium has a long history of medicinal use, particularly for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
With its vibrant appearance, versatile uses, and ease of cultivation, the garden nasturtium has become a beloved addition to gardens, balconies, and landscapes worldwide. Its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies further enhances its appeal to garden enthusiasts.
The word "nasturtium" originates from the Latin word "nasus tortus", which means "twisted nose". This is due to the peppery smell of the plant's flowers. The word "garden" simply refers to the fact that this species of nasturtium is often cultivated and grown in gardens.