Which varieties of nasturtium are there?

Content

• Which varieties of nasturtium are there?
• How do the varieties differ?
• The main distinguishing features:
• Tips & Tricks

Which varieties of nasturtium are there?

Nasturtium is actually a genus of plants. These include several ornamental species and also the edible variety, which is usually meant when one speaks of nasturtium. The creeping or climbing annual to perennial plants are very decorative.

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There are about 90 species of nasturtium. The most well-known kind is the large nasturtium, an edible sort, whose buds are inserted as Kapernersatz. This variety is also used in medicinal plant science. There it is mainly used for diseases of the upper respiratory tract or urinary tract infections. The tuberous nasturtium is considered a useful plant, it is grown in South America as a food crop.

Originally the nasturtium comes from Central and South America. There it is mainly located in the mountainous regions. Many species can be found today in the temperate climates worldwide as ornamental plants. Particularly impressive is the so-called lotus effect of its leaves: water bubbles off drop-shaped and cleans the surface.

How do the varieties differ?

In the seed trade you get mainly different one-year varieties in various colors and adapted to the different needs. In addition to the traditional yellow-orange flowers there are also salmon-colored, white or red-violet flower colors to choose from. The leaf shape and size varies from species to variety, as well as the growth habit of the plant. You will find nasturtium both for a large garden bed and for the small flower box on the balcony.

With the large nasturtium you can also bloom shady areas of your garden. Although she actually loves the sun, she still thrives there well. It is ideal as ground cover, as it grows quite fast and abundant. Some smaller-leaved varieties beautify colorful bare fences or grow on trellises.

The main distinguishing features:

Tips & Tricks

Not only the buds and flowers of the large nasturtium are edible, but also the young leaves. They refine their lightness salads or serve as a sandwich.