Tropaeolum Troika Velvet - Nasturtium

Tropaeolum majus 'Troika Velvet' is a dwarf nasturtium variety with a slightly trailing habit, perfectly adapted to planters and hanging baskets. Its small coppery orange-red flowers, enhanced with yellow on the underside, stand out admirably against the randomly variegated foliage. Sowing this annual is easy, and growing it is within everyone's reach. It will liven up the garden or patio throughout  summer.

Tropaeolum majus is a climbing or creeping annual plant native to South America. It belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It has given rise to many varieties and forms, some of which remain dwarf and compact with a rather creeping habit, such as 'Troika Velvet'. This variety was bred in the Netherlands by Van Hermert & Co. In a few weeks, this plant forms a small clump measuring 20 to 30cm (10 to 12in) in height and 1 to 1.20m (3 to 4ft) in width. It blooms from June to September, producing an abundance of 5-petalled flowers with spurs. The colour of the petals varies from dark coppery red to orange with red veins. The throat is yellow, as is the underside of the petals. In our climates, bumblebees pollinate nasturtiums. Flowering is followed by the formation of fruits containing seeds that are a little smaller than peas, which are easy to sow. The foliage is composed of round, peltate, radiant-veined, bright and fresh green leaves, randomly splashed or speckled with creamy-white..

Sow the seeds in borders, rockeries, flower pots, or hanging baskets. It can grow almost anywhere if it finds a little moisture at its base and plenty of sun to boost its flowering. It can be planted in vegetable plots and orchards, where it will help keep insect pests away from other crops.

The leaves and flowers can be added raw to salads, sauces, and mayonnaise. They have a pungent and aromatic flavour reminiscent of watercress. Flower buds and young fruits are sometimes preserved in vinegar, providing a substitute for capers. The brightly coloured flowers of the 'Troika' varieties are complementary to blue and white tones. Pair them with the annual Lobelia 'Hot Water Blue' and the light white bloom of Euphorbia 'Diamond Snow'.

It is a medicinal and aromatic plant.