Herb & Spice Companion

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HERB & SPICE COMPANION

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NASTURTIUMS

Tropaeolum majus

Flavors: peppery, watercress-like

Also called Indian cress, nasturtium stays true to the “cress” name in flavor. It has

a crisp, peppery bite much like watercress. But in appearance, nasturtium blows all

other cresses out of the water. In summertime, vibrant bursts of orange, yellow, and

red flowers grow just above the plant’s

emerald, lily pad–like leaves, making a

stunning sight in any garden or yard.

Nasturtium spreads, climbs, and grows

quickly, while its leaves, flowers, and

buds are all edible. They add zing to

fresh green salads and serve as charm-

ing garnish.

As the summer sun gets hotter later

in the season, nasturtiums’ pepper fla-

vor grows more potent right along with

it, so adjust amounts in your cooking to

accommodate for the added heat.

In the Garden

Nasturtiums, which are perennials, can either stay low and compact or climb over

fences, trellises, and basket rims. Choose the variety that suits your garden’s design.

They grow healthily in containers and window boxes.

Size: Dwarf plants, 1 to 2 feet tall; climbers, up to 10 feet tall

Container: Depends on variety and size

Light: Full sun

Soil: Moist, somewhat poor, well drained; rich soils won’t produce colorful blooms.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Nasturtium tea can help treat coughs,

colds, the flu, and bronchitis. The

leaves especially offer immune-

boosting vitamin C and can help fight

infections; they’ve most notably been

used against infections in the urinary

tract. When applied topically as a

compress, nasturtium has been used

to soothe minor skin irritations and

muscle pain.

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