Leisha Nasturtium—a flower vibrant with color and bursting with more than meets the eye—has been a singular staple in my gardening journey. To pluck a nasturtium bloom and add it to the daily salad feels almost indulgent, like sprinkling a dash of living sunshine into each meal. Over time, I grew fond of this captivating plant not just for its vivid beauty, but for its surprising versatility and culinary potential.
Originating from the rugged landscapes of the Andes Mountains in South America, nasturtiums (Tropaeolum spp.) were first introduced to European gardens by way of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Their journey across oceans and continents is a testament to their enduring appeal, thriving in gardens worldwide with their vibrant colors and enduring charm. Belonging to the Tropaeolaceae family, the many species of nasturtium range from compact bushes to sprawling vines, adding depth and dimension to garden landscapes.
Perhaps what strikes me most about nasturtiums are their symphonies of color. The trumpet-shaped blossoms, in fiery oranges, vibrant reds, and stunning purples, transform gardens into canvas-like displays, each flower a brushstroke in nature’s art. Their bold hues also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, further enriching the garden’s ecosystem.
But nasturtiums are more than just ornamental wonders. Their edible leaves and flowers add a unique peppery zest to salads, sandwiches, and even desserts. The leaves boast a taste reminiscent of watercress, offering a punch of vitamin C, while the flowers provide a delicate floral note and distinctive flavor. It’s this peppery zest that made nasturtiums a substitute for black pepper in European cuisine, and their popularity as a culinary delight continues to grow.
Historically, nasturtiums have found their place not just on the table but in the apothecary. Native American tribes historically revered nasturtiums, utilizing the plant’s leaves and flowers to treat ailments ranging from colds and coughs to digestive issues. In other cultures, nasturtiums have symbolized fidelity, luck, and strength, highlighting their symbolic richness in global traditions. In Europe, it was said their presence helped repel pests, a belief that gardeners still find practical today.
Nasturtiums, with wide, round leaves and trailing vines, have become a beloved companion in gardens. They thrive with simplicity, needing only sunlight and well-drained soil to flourish. Their deep root systems aerate and enhance soil health, adding organic matter with their decaying leaves and flowers, enriching the garden for future growth. When sowing seeds, a little microbe compost works wonders to kick-start their growth, though minimal fertilization is needed—let too much of it, and it could chase flowers into the shadows of growing foliage.
Beyond visual and culinary appeal, nasturtiums have health benefits that are worth exploring. They possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a wise choice for those looking to support respiratory health or boost their immune system. Their diuretic properties aid in detoxifying the body, while their peppery flavor stimulates digestion and adds vitality to meals.
Curiously, nasturtiums have become celebrated as “poor man’s capers.” The plant bears seeds that, when pickled, mimic the tangy flavors of Mediterranean capers. As food prices fluctuate, these seeds offer a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. A simple recipe of vinegar, sugar, and spices transforms the seeds into a delightful addition to salads, sauces, and seafood dishes—bringing a touch of elegance to everyday meals without the expense.
Planting nasturtiums is a rewarding endeavor, one that requires little maintenance yet yields vibrant returns. Start them from seeds, and watch how they blanket the garden with their vivacity. As their seedlings emerge, you find them beneath the mother plants, ready to continue the legacy of color and flavor. Their rough, warty seeds—reminiscent of their wild lineage—anchor securely in the soil, hinting at the resilience inherent in their nature.
Particularly noteworthy is the nasturtium’s ability to coexist and protect. They serve as natural pest deterrents, with their pungent aroma warding off aphids and slugs, safeguarding their garden companions. The nasturtium’s presence is not just aesthetic—it’s tactical. Our cabbages fare better with nasturtiums nearby, sheltered by their peppery scent.
In any gardener’s arsenal, nasturtiums are a hallmark of self-sufficiency and beauty, simple to cultivate yet profound in their offerings. Their ease of care makes them suitable for gardeners of all experience levels, whether adorning window boxes or sprawling along borders and trellises. Harvest the leaves and flowers in the morning, when their essential oils are most concentrated, and you’ll capture their nutritional peak.
The tucleansink remains a mystery, and yet its blend of holistically supportive properties becomes clear. In Ayurvedic thought, nasturtiums align with balancing the Kapha dosha, their light warming nature helping to lift the dense, cooling heaviness of excess Kapha. This aligns with their practical ability to stimulate digestion, enhance metabolism, and provide warmth in their peppery bite.
Let us embrace the symbiotic wisdom nasturtiums provide us—this ally in the garden and kitchen that brings joy, charm, and sustenance. To celebrate this versatile flower, here’s a culinary nod to its transformative potential:
Pickled Nasturtium Seeds (Poor Man’s Capers)
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh nasturtium seeds
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds, 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Directions: Combine vinegar, water, honey, salt, and optional spices in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Add nasturtium seeds, stir gently, and remove from heat. Cool, then transfer to a clean glass jar. Store in the refrigerator for two weeks before use. Add to salads, sandwiches, or sauces to impart a tangy twist.
Nasturtiums remind us of resilience, their blossoms depicting life’s vibrancy even in simplicity. Nurturing them provides a path to creativity and health, a testament to the harmony between nature and our plates. Let nasturtiums guide your culinary adventures, teasing out new flavors, forms, and flights of garden inspiration. They beckon the eager gardener, the kitchen adventurer, and ultimately, the herbalist within us all.
COMING SOON, “THE SECRET GARDEN” HERB BOOK, 55 PLANTS THAT GROW ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD AND THEIR GIFTS TO HUMANS.
