Contents
Description
Nasturtium Officinale, also known as watercress, is a leafy aquatic plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated in different parts of the world. This plant is popular for its culinary and medicinal uses, and it is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Nasturtium |
Appearance
Nasturtium Officinale has oval-shaped leaves with a peppery taste and a pungent smell. The leaves are dark green and grow in clusters along the stems, which can reach up to 60 cm in length. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are edible and can be used as a garnish in salads.
Care Guide
Nasturtium Officinale is a hardy plant that thrives in water. It prefers cool, running water and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Nasturtium Officinale needs a constant supply of water to thrive. Make sure to keep the soil moist and avoid letting it dry out.- Fertilization: This plant does not require heavy fertilization. You can add some organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.- Soil: Nasturtium Officinale prefers a rich, loamy soil that is well-draining. You can also grow it in a container filled with water.- Sunlight: This plant can grow in both full sun and partial shade. However, it prefers cooler temperatures and may wilt in hot weather.- Hardiness Zones: Nasturtium Officinale is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nasturtium Officinale is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids, slugs, and snails. To prevent these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or diatomaceous earth. This plant can also be affected by some fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, make sure to keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid watering it from above.
Habitat
Nasturtium Officinale is a plant that thrives in water. It is commonly found in streams, ponds, and other bodies of water. It prefers cool, running water and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. This plant is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated in different parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nasturtium Officinale edible?
A: Yes, Nasturtium Officinale is edible. It is commonly used in salads and soups.
Q: How do I propagate Nasturtium Officinale?
A: You can propagate Nasturtium Officinale by taking stem cuttings or dividing the roots.
Q: Can Nasturtium Officinale grow in a container?
A: Yes, Nasturtium Officinale can grow in a container filled with water.
Q: What are the health benefits of Nasturtium Officinale?
A: Nasturtium Officinale is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Related Plants
- Nasturtium microphyllum
- Nasturtium palustre
- Nasturtium sylvestre
References
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/watercress
- https://www.gardenista.com/garden-design-101/plant-guide/watercress/
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9042/nasturtium-officinale/details
