Nasturtiums: The Cheerful Non-Native That Brings Color and Flavor to Your Garden
If you’re looking for a plant that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, nasturtiums (Tropaeolum) might just steal your heart. These vibrant bloomers have been brightening gardens and dinner plates for generations, bringing a splash of sunshine wherever they grow.
What Exactly Are Nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums are non-native forb herbs that have made themselves quite at home in many parts of North America. Originally hailing from South America, these cheerful plants are neither woody shrubs nor towering trees – they’re herbaceous plants that put all their energy into producing gorgeous flowers and interesting foliage rather than building thick, woody stems.
These adaptable plants can behave as either annuals or perennials depending on your climate, and they’ve established themselves as naturalized residents in several U.S. states including California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands.
Why Gardeners Love (and Sometimes Question) Nasturtiums
Here’s the thing about nasturtiums – they’re incredibly easy to love. Their bright, trumpet-shaped flowers come in warm shades of yellow, orange, and red that practically glow in the garden. The round, shield-like leaves add textural interest, and here’s the kicker: both the flowers and leaves are completely edible with a peppery, watercress-like flavor that adds zing to salads and garnishes.
However, as responsible gardeners, it’s worth noting that nasturtiums aren’t native to North America. While they’re not currently listed as invasive, they have naturalized in many areas. If you’re passionate about supporting local ecosystems, you might want to consider native alternatives that provide similar benefits to wildlife.
Garden Design Magic with Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are the swiss army knife of the flower garden. Their trailing habit makes them perfect for:
- Cascading from hanging baskets and containers
- Creating colorful ground cover in informal areas
- Climbing up trellises or supports (some varieties)
- Edging pathways with vibrant color
- Filling gaps between other plants
They’re particularly at home in cottage gardens, vegetable plots (where their edible nature is appreciated), and container gardens. Their informal, slightly wild appearance works beautifully in relaxed landscape designs.
The Wildlife Connection
One of nasturtiums’ strongest selling points is their appeal to pollinators. Bees and butterflies flock to their nectar-rich blooms, and hummingbirds often visit the tubular flowers. This makes them valuable additions to pollinator gardens, even if they aren’t native species.
Growing Nasturtiums Successfully
The wonderful thing about nasturtiums is how forgiving they are. Here’s what they need to thrive:
Light and Location: Full sun to partial shade works well, though they’ll produce more flowers in sunnier spots.
Soil Preferences: Here’s a counterintuitive tip – don’t pamper nasturtiums with rich soil! They actually flower better in average to poor soils. Rich, fertile ground encourages leafy growth at the expense of blooms.
Water Needs: Moderate watering is perfect. They’re somewhat drought-tolerant once established but appreciate consistent moisture during dry spells.
Climate Considerations: Nasturtiums prefer cool weather and may struggle in extreme heat. In most areas, they’re grown as annuals, but in zones 9-11, they might survive winter and return.
Planting and Care Tips
Getting nasturtiums started is refreshingly simple:
- Direct sow seeds in spring after the last frost
- Plant seeds about half an inch deep and 6-12 inches apart
- Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming
- Watch for aphids, which seem to love nasturtiums (some gardeners use them as trap crops for this reason)
The Native Alternative Conversation
While nasturtiums are lovely plants that many gardeners cherish, those interested in supporting native ecosystems might consider alternatives like native sunflowers, bee balm, or regional wildflowers that provide similar color and pollinator benefits while supporting local wildlife more comprehensively.
Ultimately, nasturtiums occupy a special place in many gardens – they’re easy to grow, beautiful to look at, fun to eat, and beloved by pollinators. Whether you choose to grow them or explore native alternatives, the most important thing is creating a garden space that brings you joy while being mindful of its broader ecological impact.
