Nasturtium Tropaeolum majus Whirlybird Series

Names

• Synonyms

  Garden Nasturtium, Indian Cress, Monks Cress

• Common names

  Tropaeolum majus.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Nasturtium, which is the common name of Tropaeolum majus Whirlybird Series, is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, the leaves and flowers are often used in culinary dishes for their peppery flavor. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause adverse reactions if ingested. It is always best to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms after consuming any part of a plant with which you are not familiar.

• To pets

  Nasturtium, the common name of Tropaeolum majus Whirlybird Series, is generally not toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. The plant is often considered safe and non-toxic, and some pet owners may even use the leaves and flowers as a low-calorie treat. However, if a pet ingests a large amount of the plant, it could possibly experience mild gastrointestinal upset. If you notice your pet showing any signs of distress after consuming any part of the nasturtium, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Annuals

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Varies

• Height

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  9

• Native area

  Central and South America

General Benefits

• Easy to Grow: Tropaeolum majus Whirlybird Series is known for being easy to grow, making it suitable for gardeners of all experience levels.
• Edible Flowers: Nasturtium offers edible flowers that can add a peppery flavor to salads and garnishes.
• Pest Deterrent: Nasturtiums naturally repel certain pests, reducing the need for chemical insecticides in the garden.
• Attracts Beneficial Insects: The plant attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination of other plants in the garden.
• Colorful Blossoms: Nasturtium produces vibrant flowers that can aesthetically improve the look of gardens and landscapes.
• Companion Planting: When planted near vegetables and fruits, it can improve their growth and flavor through companion planting benefits.
• Soil Improvement: Nasturtium can help in improving the soil quality by adding biomass when the plants decompose.

Medical Properties

• Antibacterial - Used traditionally to combat bacterial infections, especially in the urinary tract.
• Antifungal - Applied to manage fungal infections like ringworm due to its antifungal activity.
• Antiscorbutic - High in vitamin C, it's historically been used to prevent and treat scurvy.
• Expectorant - Believed to help clear mucus from the respiratory system, aiding in common cold and flu symptoms.
• Wound healing - The leaves applied as poultices were used traditionally for their healing properties on cuts and wounds.
• Diuretic - May increase urine production, used in traditional medicine to help with urinary system issues.
• Mild Analgesic - Chewed leaves may have been used to alleviate minor pain like toothaches.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Nasturtiums are often used as a trap crop in gardens. They attract pests such as aphids, keeping them away from other more valuable plants.
• The leaves and flowers of nasturtiums can be used to create a vibrant, natural dye for fabrics and paper.
• Nasturtium seeds can be pickled in vinegar and used as a substitute for capers in various recipes.
• The peppery taste of nasturtium leaves makes them an interesting addition to cocktails, especially to infuse gin or vodka.
• Nasturtiums can be planted as companion plants to deter certain pests and insects from vegetables such as cucumbers and tomatoes.
• The bright flowers of nasturtiums can be frozen in ice cubes to create an attractive and edible garnish for summer drinks.
• Nasturtium leaves can be used as a mold to create chocolate or sugar decorations by brushing them with the material and peeling it off once set.
• Pressed nasturtium flowers can be used in craftwork, such as creating bookmarks or enhancing the visual appeal of homemade cards and scrapbooks.
• When planted in poor soil, nasturtiums can serve as a natural soil improver as they have a tendency to gather trace elements and minerals.
• Due to their vibrant color and abundant blooms, nasturtiums can be used as an organic method for color coding different areas in a garden or farm.

Feng Shui

The Nasturtium is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Nasturtium is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Victory in Battle: The Latin name "Tropaeolum" originates from "tropaion" where the ancient Greeks would celebrate a victory in battle by displaying the armor and weapons of defeated foes on a tree. They called this the "tropaeum," which is echoed in the plant's resemblance to a soldier's helmet.
• Conquest and Triumph: As an extension of its association with victory, the Nasturtium embodies themes of conquest and triumph, which might pertain to overcoming obstacles in one's personal life or achieving success against the odds.
• Vibrancy and Vitality: The bright and vivid colors of the Nasturtium are symbolic of life's energy and the spark of enthusiasm, reminding us to approach our endeavors with vigor and passion.
• Optimism: The cheerful appearance of the Nasturtium, with its bold colors, inspires an optimistic outlook and suggests a positive attitude in the face of challenges.
• Courage and Bravery: The resemblance of the Nasturtium to a helmet also conveys a sense of courage and bravery, encouraging us to face adversity with fortitude.