WSU Clark County Extension
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Garden Nasturtium

Scientific name: Tropaeolum majus
Taxonomy
Family:Tropaeolaceae
Type:Annuals and Biennials
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:4 to 8
Sun:Full to partial sun
Plant Characteristics
Height:1 ft
Width:2 ft
Bloom:Summer flowers
Bloom Time:May to August
Bloom Color:Orange
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description For gardeners looking for non-stop flowering all through the summer the Garden Nasturtium is an ideal selection with its ease of establishment and bright colorful flowers.

  Morphology:
Garden Nasturtium is an annual which often re-seeds in areas west of the Cascades. Plants bear pale green leaves (resembling water lily pads) which are 2”-5” across, and are borne on long petioles like an umbrella.

The flowers typically have five petals, although there are double and semi-double varieties. The flowers are about 1”-2” and come in a whole host of colors including yellow, russet, pink, orange, scarlet and crimson. The flowering period extends from late spring through early fall. Hummingbirds are readily attracted to the nectar produced by the flowers.

  Adaptation:
Garden nasturtium does best in light, sandy soils. Plants do best without supplemental nutrition in order to promote flowering over leaf production. Many gardeners include nasturtium leaves in the salad garden.

  Pests:
Aphids love to feed on the leaves.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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