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Description
Tropaeolum Majus, commonly known as Nasturtium, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically Peru and Colombia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant is known for its showy, bright-colored flowers that come in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The leaves of the plant are also edible and have a peppery taste. Nasturtium is easy to grow and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Tropaeolales |
| Family | Tropaeolaceae |
| Genus | Tropaeolum |
Appearance
Nasturtiums are known for their bright, showy flowers that come in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The flowers have five petals and are often funnel-shaped. The leaves of the plant are also attractive and come in different shapes and sizes. Some leaves are round, while others are shield-shaped or deeply lobed. Nasturtiums can grow up to one meter tall and have a sprawling growth habit.
Care Guide
Nasturtiums are easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips:Water: Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil and do not like to sit in water. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Nasturtiums do not require much fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.Soil: Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.Sunlight: Nasturtiums prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but the flowers may not be as vibrant.Hardiness Zones: Nasturtiums can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nasturtiums are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be affected by aphids, caterpillars, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Nasturtiums can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Nasturtiums are native to South America, specifically Peru and Colombia. They can be found growing in rocky and sandy areas, as well as in disturbed habitats such as roadsides and waste areas. Nasturtiums have been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe and North America, and can be found growing in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Are nasturtiums edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers of nasturtiums are edible and have a peppery taste.Q: How do I propagate nasturtiums?
A: Nasturtiums can be propagated by seed or by taking cuttings.Q: How often should I water my nasturtiums?
A: Water your nasturtiums when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Can nasturtiums grow in shade?
A: Nasturtiums prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but the flowers may not be as vibrant.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Tropaeolum genus include:- Tropaeolum peregrinum (Canary Creeper)- Tropaeolum tuberosum (Mashua)- Tropaeolum speciosum (Flame Nasturtium)
References
– “Tropaeolum majus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282985.- “Nasturtium.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9625/tropaeolum-majus/details.
