Nasturtium

views updated May 18 2018

Nasturtium (watercress; family Cruciferae) A genus of plants that have pinnate leaves and spikes of white flowers. The elongated fruits have two convex valves. Watercress is cultivated for its edible leaves, used as a salad vegetable. There are 6 species, occurring from Europe to central Asia.

A Dictionary of Plant Sciences MICHAEL ALLABY

nasturtium

views updated Jun 08 2018

nas·tur·tium / naˈstərshəm; nə-/ • n. a South American trailing plant (Tropaeolum majus, family Tropaeolaceae) with round leaves and bright orange, yellow, or red flowers that is widely grown as an ornamental.

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

nasturtium

views updated May 23 2018

nasturtium Both the leaves and seeds of Tropaeolum officinalis can be eaten; they have a hot flavour. The seeds can be pickled as a substitute for capers, and the flowers can be used to decorate salads.

A Dictionary of Food and Nutrition DAVID A. BENDER

nasturtium

views updated May 21 2018

nasturtium genus of cruciferous plants (watercress, etc.) having a pungent taste XVII; trailing plant of the genus Tropaeolum XVIII. — L.; of uncert. orig.

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology T. F. HOAD