nasturtium

These bright garden flowers are more than just pretty to look at. Often orange, yellow, or red, they are known for their round leaves and their peppery taste. The flowers, leaves, and seeds can all be eaten, and they are often added to salads and other dishes. Their name comes from Latin and refers to the sharp smell and taste. They are also popular in gardens because they can help draw pests away from other plants, making them both beautiful and useful.

Nasturtium usually refers to a bright garden flower in the Tropaeolum group, known for its vivid blooms and rounded leaves. The name comes from Latin, from nasus tortus, or "twisted nose," a playful reference to the plant's sharp, peppery smell and taste.

People often grow nasturtiums for their beauty, since their flowers can be orange, yellow, red, or even cream. They are easy to grow, spread quickly, and do well in many home gardens, which has helped make them popular as ornamental plants.

One of the most interesting things about them is that nearly every part of the plant can be eaten, including the flowers, leaves, and seeds. Their flavor is peppery, a bit like watercress or radish, so they are often used in salads, pesto, or as a garnish.

Beyond their use in food, nasturtiums are also valued as companion plants in the garden. They can attract helpful insects and may draw pests away from nearby vegetables. You might see them planted near tomatoes or cucumbers, adding both color and practical value. So when you spot one in a garden, you are not just seeing a pretty flower. You are seeing a plant that is colorful, edible, and useful.