The WALA Plant Library
Nasturtium

Synonyms for Nasturtium: Indian Cress
Scientific Name: Tropaeolum majus L.
Family: Tropaeolaceae

Description:

The luxuriant growth of the nasturtium is a true joy for all garden lovers. Branching out in all directions it reliably and quickly covers bare patches and whole balcony balustrades with lush green and, from May to the first autumn frosts, delights the onlooker with a wealth of large yellow to orange flowers bearing a prominent spur. After flowering, the fruiting stalk bows towards the earth and conceals the ripening seeds in a cool, moist place. The round leaves, with the leaf stems at the center, are also highly decorative, their shape reminiscent of floating leaves. Drops of water collect like precious beads at their center and in cool nights water is secreted by the pores (hydathodes) at their edges. The whole plant is succulent and soft, without woody structures, and therefore grows close to the ground or hanging over balconies. It can only grow upwards with the support of fences or hedges. However, this softness and succulence makes it extremely susceptible to frost which causes it to wilt almost completely.

In its native habitat, the Andes, the water-loving nasturtium grows naturally close to the rivulets on the mountain slopes.