Tropaeolum majus aka Nasturtium

Tropaeolum majus, or garden nasturtium, belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. Kew records its origin as a cultivated plant from Peru. It grows as an annual or a short-lived perennial. Gardeners in temperate lands grow it as an annual. It grows fast and comes in bushy and climbing forms. Escaped plants have become established in parts of Europe.

Bushy forms reach about 1 foot (0.3 metres) tall. They can spread to 2 feet (0.6 metres) wide. RHS gives climbing plants a garden range of 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5 metres). Its spread falls within the same range. Other sources report heights of 10 feet (3 metres). Stems may reach 11.5 feet (3.5 metres) in length. Long stems trail across soil or climb through nearby plants. Leaf stalks twist around supports to help the plant climb. Round, green leaves have pale veins and long stalks. These stalks join near the centre of each leaf. The plant has a sharp scent.

Flowers have five petals, a funnel shape, and a long spur. Colours include red, orange, yellow, pink, and cream. Some flowers have extra petals, and some have a scent. Missouri Botanical Garden lists bloom from May to September. RHS describes flowers through summer and autumn. Flowers draw butterflies and hummingbirds into the garden. Leaves, buds, flowers, pods, and seeds have a peppery taste. Add raw leaves and flowers to salads for colour and bite. Young pods taste hotter and can replace capers when pickled.

Grow nasturtiums in full sun and soil that drains well. Afternoon shade helps where summers are hot. Poor to average soil suits flower production. Rich soil feeds leaves at the cost of blooms. The plant tolerates drought and needs little upkeep. Sow seed to raise new plants. Remove spent flowers to extend the bloom season. RHS rates it H3 for mild UK sites. Missouri Botanical Garden lists annual use in USDA zones 2–11. Bushy plants suit beds, borders, slopes, pots, and hanging baskets. Climbing forms can cover a fence or trellis.

Aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, and spider mites may attack the plant. Virus diseases and bacterial wilt can also occur. Seeds may sprout freely and spread plants beyond their beds. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Yet RHS warns that contact can cause skin allergy. PFAF warns of gut irritation and cautions against use by small children. Its warning also covers people with gut ulcers or kidney disease. PFAF records traditional medicinal uses, not proof of safe treatment.