The nasturtium (A larger trophy), known as Queen's taco, gallant's spur, flower of blood, wounds of Christ, marañuela and other names, is a ornamental and edible plant Native to South America, its history is fascinating: it arrived in Europe via the Capuchin monks, who valued it as much for its striking beauty as for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Botanical characteristics of Nasturtium
La capuchina It is an annual plant that can grow as climber or creeping. Their stems are succulent, long and flexible, And the leaves, from light to deep green in color, they present a rounded shape and an elongated petiole that runs along the entire stem, reaching up to 10 cm in diameter. The large flower is displayed in shades yellow, orange and orange-red, and stands out for its hood shape and its soft aromatic fragrance.
The expansion of nasturtium throughout the world is due to its great resistance and adaptability; it has even become wild in Mediterranean areas, and is sometimes considered an invasive plant.
History, culture and etymology
Name Tropaeolum comes from Greek and Latin, referring to a "trophy" due to the particular arrangement of its leaves and flowers. Popular names have been attributed to it in Europe and South America, where it is widely used in both cooking and folk medicine. In Andes even the variety is consumed Tropaeolum tuberosum, appreciated for its edible tubers.
Since its introduction to Europe, nasturtium has gained popularity not only in gardens, but also in Western gastronomy and herbal medicine. Its worldwide expansion has been a result of its ability to acclimatize to poor soils and diverse climatic conditions, although it always prefers the direct sunlight and mild temperatures.
Growing and caring for nasturtium
- Substratum: Prefers soils well drained and slightly poorAn excess of nutrients can benefit leaves more than flowering.
- IrrigationModerate. It is best to water when the substrate begins to dry out, avoiding waterlogging to prevent root rot.
- SubscriberSpecific fertilizers for flowering plants are recommended, especially just before spring. Use solid fertilizers if you prefer to reduce the frequency, although liquid fertilizers can provide nutrients in a more controlled manner.
- Light and temperature: They need a lot of light and moderate temperatures. It is advisable to protect them from excessive direct heat in summer and avoid frost during winter.
La direct seeding or in seedbeds is simple and efficient thanks to the large size of its seeds and its high germination rate. self-seeding This means that after their first period in the garden, they re-emerge every spring without any additional effort.
Nasturtium as a trap plant and pest control
In the garden, nasturtium is used for multiple purposes:
- Repels aphids, snails, slugs, ants and flies.
- Act as "trap plant", concentrating pests on its leaves and keeping them away from more sensitive crops.
- Attract pollinating insects and protect nearby crops from bugs, aphids, and other pests.
- Just like natural fungicide for home uses.
Gastronomic use of leaves, flowers and seeds
All plant is edible: leaves, flowers and green seeds. The leaves they have a spicy taste similar to watercress. The flowers They have a soft hue and are highly valued for decorating and flavoring dishes.
The fresh seeds They can be used pickled as a substitute for capers, although excessive consumption is not recommended due to their purgative effect.
Recipe example:
- Mix fresh nasturtium leaves with goat cheese, nuts, and a dressing of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
In professional and home cooking, Nasturtiums in salads are spicy and refreshing., and can be used finely chopped in soups, pastas or other dishes to provide natural flavor and color.
Medicinal and nutritional properties of nasturtium
- It contains glucosinolates (with antibiotic and balsamic effect) and essential oils useful for respiratory problems such as colds or excess mucus.
- It is a source of vitamin C, flavonoids (lutein, zeaxanthin), carotenoids and oxalic acid.
- Its use helps to improve defenses, prevent respiratory tract infections and has some diuretic action.
- It has also been traditionally used for its antioxidant and as a mild remedy for skin bruises.
As a precaution, especially sensitive people should handle the plant with gloves, as it can cause mild skin irritation.
In addition, there is some ownership protects hair against falls and helps to strengthen it.
Nasturtium not only beautifies the garden with its cheerful and prolonged flowering, but it works as live quilting and strengthening the biodiversity of the space. Its planting benefits the sustainability of urban and home gardens, and its self-seeding capacity makes it an environmentally friendly choice.
Thanks to its easy propagation, low maintenance, and diverse applications, nasturtium continues to conquer orchards, gardens, and kitchens around the world, providing health, beauty, and utility in every season.
