Botanical Name: Tropaeolum majus
Some other names: Indian Cress, Monks Cress
How to Grow It
Nasturtium is officially an annual trailing plant, but it behaves more like a perennial because it self-seeds so prolifically. In practice, once you plant it, you’ll rarely be without it — new seedlings will pop up year after year with little effort. It typically trails to about 40 cm, but will happily climb fences, trellises, and even other plants if given the chance.
It grows across a wide climatic range, from cooler temperate zones (where it’s best replanted each spring) right through to subtropical gardens, where it often reseeds and grows nearly year-round.
Sun requirements: Nasturtiums love full sun, but the leaves can get a bit bitter in the peak of summer, so plant a few in semi-shade too — that way, you’ll always have tender leaves to pick.
Water & soil: They thrive in poor soils and don’t need fertilising — in fact, rich soil will give you more leaves and fewer flowers. They are surprisingly drought-hardy once established, but a bit of water will keep them lush.
Propagation: Almost too easy! You can:
- Scatter seeds directly (they’re big, easy to handle, and germinate quickly).
- Take cuttings — they’ll root in water or soil.
- Divide clumps if they’ve settled in.
They also do brilliantly in pots and hanging baskets, where they cascade beautifully, and make an excellent living mulch under taller plants, shading the soil and repelling pests like aphids and whitefly.
Herbal & Nutrient Value
Nasturtium isn’t just pretty — it’s packed with nutrition. The leaves are particularly high in vitamin C (about 45 mg per 100g — nearly half your daily needs), which supports the immune system and helps the body absorb iron. They also contain iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium in useful amounts.
Herbalists consider nasturtium a powerful natural antibiotic — it’s been traditionally used to help the body fight off coughs, colds, and infections. It’s also believed to boost circulation and support healthy skin.
Traditional & Home Remedies
Vitamin C booster tea – Fresh nasturtium leaves steeped in hot water for immune support.
Leaf poultice – Crushed leaves on minor cuts (folk antibacterial use).
Hair rinse – Infusion of leaves & flowers applied to scalp for shine & strength.
Using It in the Kitchen
Nasturtium leaves have a peppery bite, like a milder, juicier version of rocket. Some love it, some find it strong — so start with a few leaves until you decide how much zing you like.
flowers & seeds.
Leaves: Use fresh in salads and sandwiches. They also make great wraps for soft cheese or pâté.
Flowers: Bright and edible — they add colour and a mild sweetness to salads (kids love them for their sweet nectar).
Seeds & buds: The green seeds and unopened flower buds can be pickled as “poor man’s capers.” Dried seeds can be ground and used as a pepper substitute — milder than black pepper but still a nice kick.
Cooking the leaves isn’t ideal — the flavour becomes strong and dominates the dish. Keep them raw for best taste and nutrition.
Simple recipe ideas:
– Peppery Salad Mix – Toss a few nasturtium leaves and flowers with lettuce, cucumber, and avocado for colour and a spicy twist.
– Herb Butter – Finely chop leaves and mix into butter for a zesty spread for bread or corn.
– Poor Man’s Capers – Pickle the green seeds in vinegar and use them just like capers in pasta or salads.
– Stuffed Nasturtium Leaves – Roll soft goat cheese or cream cheese inside large leaves for an easy appetiser.
– Edible Garnish – Use flowers to top omelettes, cakes, or even cocktails for instant wow-factor.
Other Uses
- Pest repellent: Nasturtiums are famous for drawing away aphids from other crops like kale and broccoli — plant them as a natural “trap crop.”
- Living mulch: Their trailing habit shades the soil, suppresses weeds, and keeps moisture in.
- Animal fodder: Chickens, ducks, and rabbits will nibble the leaves happily.
Why it’s a survival plant:
Self-seeds like crazy – once you have nasturtiums, you’ll likely always have them.
Multiple edible parts – leaves, flowers, and seeds all useful in the kitchen.
Hardy and forgiving – thrives on neglect, handles poor soil, and keeps on producing.
This is one of those plants that feeds you, brightens your garden, helps your soil, and brings colour to every plate — a true survival garden candidate.
