The nasturtium , known scientifically asTropaeolum majus , belongs to the botanical family Tropaeolaceae . This genus , Tropaeolum , is named for its carapace - shaped leave , resonant of ancient Roman trophies , from which it come its name – ‘ tropaeum ’ in Latin . The flora features vivacious , often intensely color in flowers with five petal and a unparalleled nectar gad . It ’s classify as an herbaceous perennial in its native habitats but is unremarkably grown as an yearbook in many regions due to its sensitivity to frost .

The history of the genus Nasturtium is as colorful as its blossom . Originating from the Andes of South America , it was first introduced to Europe by Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century . ab initio fetch back as a culinary herb , its peppery leaves and peak were likened to watercress , hence the vernacular name “ nasturtium ” which translates from Latin as “ nose - cruller ” due to its juicy tone . By the eighteenth hundred , nasturtiums had become popular not only for their taste but also for their ornamental time value , appearing in the gardens of nobility and diachronic figures like Thomas Jefferson at Monticello . Over centuries , various species and hybrids have been modernise , enhance the plant ’s diversity in form and color .

Nasturtiums are aboriginal to South and Central America , particularly thriving in the neighborhood from Mexico down to Chile . In their natural environment , they develop in the understory of montane forests , at elevations where their mounting or straggle habit can be supported by the surrounding vegetation .

When it comes to USDA hardiness geographical zone , Nasturtium are considered tender perennials in zone 9 to 11 , where they can survive meek wintertime . However , in nerveless climates , they are in the main treated as annuals , as they do not withstand hoarfrost well . This adaptability has made them a favorite in gardens worldwide , where they ’re appreciated for their ease of growth , smart flush , and the ability to thrive even in poor dirt conditions , marking them as both an ornamental and a practical garden industrial plant .

Nasturtium Flower: Characteristics

Nasturtium Flower: Cultivation

Planting Time

Sow nasturtium source directly into the garden after the last frost when the soil has warmed up , typically in previous spring or early summertime . They do n’t transplant well , so avoid starting them indoors .

Soil Requirements

Nasturtiums choose well - drain , not excessively fertile soil . In fact , too rich a territory can lead to more leaf than flower . A flaxen or loamy territory works best .

Sunlight

They thrive in full Dominicus but can support partial shade , especially in hotter mood where afternoon shade can forestall scorching .

Watering

piddle moderately ; nasturtium are reasonably drouth - kind once established but benefit from consistent moisture , peculiarly when new or in bloom . quash overwatering to preclude rot .

Spacing

Space seeds or seedling about 8 to 12 inch aside to countenance for growth and melodic line circulation , which help forestall disease .

livelihood for Climbers

For climbing varieties , supply trellis , fences , or other support for the vine to mount . Trailing types can be earmark to sprawl or can be lead over gloomy backing .

Fertilization

Nasturtiums do not command much fertilization ; too much can lead to riotous leaf at the disbursal of efflorescence . If fertilizing , use a light , balanced fertiliser sparingly .

Pest Control

nasturtium can act as a natural plague deterrent for other plant , in particular against aphids . However , they might draw caterpillars or caterpillar - like mallet in some areas . Manual removal is often effective .

Deadheading

Remove spent flowers to encourage more flower . This also keeps the industrial plant looking tidy and prevent ego - seeding if you need to control where nasturtium acquire next time of year .

harvest home

For culinary role , break up flowers , leaf , and seed fuel pod when they are at their peak . Flowers should be harvest in the morn when they are most hydrous .

Self - Seeding

Nasturtiums can ego - come prolifically if you allow some flowers to go to seed . This can be advantageous for a rude face but might demand thinning out in subsequent year .

Winter Care

In zones where they ’re not stalwart ( below USDA geographical zone 9 ) , plow nasturtiums as annual . In warmer zone , they can be perennial but might involve protection from severe cold snaps , or you could gather up seeds for next yr ’s planting .