Nasturtium
|
Botanical Name |
Tropaeolum majus/T miner |
|
Family |
Tropaeolaceae |
|
Other Name |
Indian Cress, yellow lark’s heel |
|
Habitat |
Waste ground |
|
Description |
Annual Climbing, hairless plant 30cm-1m/1ft-3ft. Leaves: round Red, yellow and gold bell shaped flowers, 5 petals June-September |
|
Native to |
South America Cultivated in England since 16th century |
|
Parts used |
Flowers, leaves, nectar, buds |
|
Cultivation |
Light soil, plenty water. Dislikes hot weather. Sow seeds late spring – early summer |
|
Harvesting |
July –October |
|
Actions |
Anti-microbial |
|
Constituents |
Glucosilinates, vitamin C |
|
Culinary Uses |
Leaves & Flowers: stir fries, salads, and sandwiches. Flower heads battered and deep fried |
|
Respiratory |
Colds, flu, bronchitis |
|
Other Uses |
Cucumber beetle and whitefly deterrent |
|
Other Notes |
Rich in vitamin C and iron It is said to have supernatural power to repel serpents and the flowers are said to sparkle at night It is said to be the metamorphosis of a Trojan huntsman It is a symbol of patriotism |