In praise of Nasturtiums

The ultimate beautiful food plant: nasturtiums (Tropaeolum). Many people know the leaves as great in salads. But the flowers are even better: a honey-sweet burst of scented flavour that ends with a fiery, radish tang.

Nasturtium is also a wonderful companion plant. Radishes and the cabbage and broccoli family love it. It attracts aphids and other pests, and works well as a barrier when planted around fruit trees, tomatoes, curcurbits and brassicas.

Nasturtium grows quickly and easily and actually likes poor soil with low moisture and no fertiliser. It gives great ground cover and can be trained over walls and fences.

It is also spectacular. It comes in a range of colours, from dazzling jewel hues to quieter whites and creams. Leaves vary from bright green to dark green and variegated.