Groundcover layer · Annual / short-lived trailing herb
Nasturtium
Tropaeolum majus
A cheerful self-seeding groundcover and living mulch. Edible flowers and leaves add salad interest while covering soil.
Also known as: Nasturtium
Layer
Groundcover layer
Climate
Subtropical, Warm temperate, Temperate, Cool temperate
Sun
Full sun to partial shade.
Water
Moderate; tolerates poorer dry soils (often flowers more when not overfed).
Soil
Average to poor soils; rich soil may favour leaf over flower.
Size
0.2–0.4 m (trailing stems longer) H · Spreading / climbing 1–2 m+ W
Growth
Fast
Frost
Frost tender; reseeds readily in many NZ gardens.
Edible uses
Leaves, Flowers, Green seeds (pickled, traditional use)
Harvest window
Spring through autumn in mild climates
Ecological functions
Living mulch · Soil cover · Insectary flowers · Trap crop (practical tradition)
Wildlife value
Insect forage
Human uses
Salads · Garnish · Visual colour
Propagation
Seed; self-sows.
Maintenance
Thin if overly vigorous; allow some seed for next season.
NZ growing notes
Reliable across most regions in the growing season. Useful under fruit trees where light reaches the ground.
In the food forest
Nasturtium is a classic groundcover living mulch under fruit trees. Edible flowers and leaves are a bonus while soil stays covered.
Establishment
Sow seed in spring after frost. Water to germinate. Thin mats that smother seedlings. Let some plants seed for next year.
NZ honesty
Nationwide seasonal honesty. Frost ends plants; self-seeding usually returns them.
Suitable NZ regions
Companion plants
Related guilds
References
- Home garden practice — Widely grown edible ornamental in NZ.