Types of Nasturtiums

Nasturtium Fast Facts. Nasturtiums are a colorful addition to any garden space. Many varieties trail or climb. The plant's Latin name, Tropaeolum, comes from the shield or circular shape of the plant's large leaves. Features. Nasturtiums are notable because the entire plant is edible as well as beautiful.

Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruíz and Pavón Tropaeolum tuberosum (mashua, see below for other names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Tropaeolaceae, grown in the Andes, particularly in Peru and Bolivia, and to a lesser extent in Ecuador as well as in Boyacá Department, Colombia, for its edible tubers, which are eaten cooked or roasted as a vegetable.