The nasturtium is a fiery beauty that captivates us

Those who have access to a garden are fortunate, and this also applies to city dwellers. A green oasis is a wonderful place to relax and reconnect with nature.

However, not everyone has a large area at their disposal, and not everyone who loves gardening has a green thumb. Time is also an issue. Nevertheless, those who still want to create an eye-catching feature can find ways to do so. This way, they can enjoy the fruits of their labour.

Nasturtiums are undemanding. They look beautiful and are hardy. This plant originates from South America and belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. Seeds can be bought cheaply in several varieties in spring. There are climbing and upright varieties of the nasturtium, for example. The latter can climb beautifully up any support or drape picturesquely over low walls and borders. Sowing is very straightforward. The fairly large seeds are placed in the soil at an appropriate distance from each other. What then grows are lots of beautiful leaves that unfold quickly.

Nasturtium leaves have the so-called lotus effect, which causes water to roll off, taking dirt particles with it. The beautiful flowers come in a variety of colours, particularly shades of orange and yellow. The young leaves taste delicious and have a peppery flavour that spices up any salad. The edible flowers can be used to decorate dishes, and the buds can be used as a substitute for capers.

One species of the genus, Tropaeolum tuberosum, has tubers that can be prepared as a vegetable. However, the nasturtium plant has many other uses, as it is also an effective medicinal plant. Its oils have an antibiotic effect, which is why the plant is used to treat infections and inflammation, such as tonsillitis and urethritis. It can also have a positive effect on kidney problems and promote expectoration in cases of bronchitis.

As nasturtium contains a high proportion of vitamin C, it is ideal for boosting the immune system. Depending on how it is used – as a tincture, pressed juice or decoction – nasturtium can help with various ailments. One recipe is said to be beneficial for dandruff. This fiery beauty is just one of the many gifts that nature has in store for us. It is also very undemanding. As for the much-cited green thumb, it simply requires spending a little more time getting to know the plants.

Why not set up a gift basket in a corner of your garden or on your balcony next spring? You will reap far more than you sow.

© 'The nasturtium is a fiery beauty that captivates us. An undemanding cress plant, used as vegetables and medicinal plants': An article by Pressenet (translated by Izabel Comati), 09/2025. The photo shows Tropaeolum majus, the garden nasturtium, CC0 (Public Domain Licence).