nasturtium

noun

nas·​tur·​tium nə-ˈstər-shəm 

na-

: any of a genus (Tropaeolum of the family Tropaeolaceae, the nasturtium family) of herbs of Central and South America with showy spurred flowers and pungent edible seeds and leaves

especially : either of two widely cultivated ornamentals (T. majus and T. minus)

Illustration of nasturtium

Examples of nasturtium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some of the best plants to grow near milkweed for aphid control are marigolds, alliums, nasturtiums, dill, catnip, and anise. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 June 2026

Use a 10-gallon container filled with rich, moist soil for vigorous growth and continuous fruit production, and set it next to a pot of nasturtiums, which attract essential pollinators. — Blythe Copeland, Martha Stewart, 12 June 2026

The bright blooms of nasturtiums will attract pollinators to your garden, ensuring a boost in berry production. — Heather Bien, Southern Living, 10 June 2026

Early in the season, before my pruned roses begin to bloom, the daisies, nemesia, sweet alyssum, stock (usually an annual, though a perennial in my garden) and nasturtiums provide essential pollen and nectar for beneficial insects and pollinators. — Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, a cress

First Known Use

1704, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

nasturtium

noun

nas·​tur·​tium nə-ˈstər-shəm 

na-

: any of a genus of herbs with showy flowers and edible sharp-tasting seeds and leaves