General Description/History

These hardy, rambling garden plants are popular pot plants as well, particularly in hanging baskets. There are about 90 Tropaeolum species but only 3 are commonly used in gardens or pots: T. majus, T. peregrinum and T. speciosum. Nastrurtiums are annuals that typically flower in spring, through summer to autumn, then die back. In the garden they readily self-seed, so that new plants will likely appear again in the following spring. Flowers are rounded, with 5 petals and strongly coloured in yellow, orange, cream or red. The centre of each flower is often darker in colour. Leaves are large, and a rounded, shield shape. They are covered in tiny hairs that repel water, so that any water droplets on the leaves form beads, and look a bit like mercury as they swirl around.

Nasturtium flowers are sometimes used in salads. They have a peppery taste, a bit like watercress. The leaves are also edible.

What to look for

• Plants with a few open flowers and many buds
• Leaves with a glossy green appearance
• Avoid pots with dried, yellow leaves

Flower Care

1. Remove the plastic sleeve around the pot.
2. Place pots in a well-lit place, ideally in partial (but not full) sun.
3. Check pots daily and water if dry.
4. These plants are annuals so they will die back in winter.

Interesting Facts about this Flower

The common name, nasturtium means ‘nose twister’.

Botanical Name: Tropaeolum sp., commonly T. majus

Common Names: Nasturtium

Stem Length: 

Country of Origin: Tropical Central and South America

Available Colours: Cream, Orange, Red, Yellow

Season: Summer,Autumn,Spring

Availability: January,February,March,April,May,September,October,November,Decemeber