Are Nasturtiums Edible? A Complete Guide to Eating Nasturtiums Safely

Yes, nasturtiums are completely edible. In fact, every part of the nasturtium plant can be eaten, including the leaves, flowers, and seeds. Nasturtiums are popular in edible gardens because they are easy to grow, fast growing, attractive, and add bold flavour to food as well as colour to the garden.

⭐ Recommended Products — 🌿 Nasturtiums & Growing Essentials

Nasturtiums are cheerful, edible flowers with bright colours and peppery taste — easy to grow in beds, containers, and hanging baskets.

• Nasturtium Seed Collection (Mixed Colours)
A mix of vibrant nasturtium seeds — perfect for sowing directly outdoors or under cover early in the season.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Nasturtium Plug Plants / Young Seedlings
Healthy young nasturtium plants ready to transplant into borders or containers for instant summer colour.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Well-Draining Flower & Annual Compost
Light, nutrient-balanced compost ideal for nurturing nasturtium roots and encouraging healthy growth.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Grow Lights for Early Sowing
Bright LED grow lights that help keep indoors-sown nasturtiums strong and stocky before planting outside.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Decorative Pots & Planters for Nasturtiums
Attractive containers that show off nasturtium blooms on patios, balconies, or windowsills.
👉 Click here to see top options

This guide explains which parts of nasturtiums are edible, what they taste like, how to use them in cooking, and how to eat them safely.

Which Parts of Nasturtiums Are Edible?

All main parts of the nasturtium plant are edible:

• Leaves
• Flowers
• Seeds

As long as plants are grown organically and not treated with chemicals, they are safe to eat.

What Do Nasturtium Leaves Taste Like?

Nasturtium leaves have a peppery, spicy flavour, often compared to watercress, rocket, or mustard greens. The taste comes from natural compounds that give the plant its distinctive heat.

• Young leaves are milder
• Older leaves have a stronger bite

They are commonly used fresh in salads, sandwiches, and wraps.

Are Nasturtium Flowers Edible?

Yes. Nasturtium flowers are edible and slightly milder than the leaves.

• Mild, slightly sweet flavour
• Peppery aftertaste
• Soft texture

They are often used as:

• Salad garnishes
• Decorative toppings
• Edible decorations for summer dishes

The flowers add colour as well as flavour.

Can You Eat Nasturtium Seeds?

Yes. Nasturtium seeds are edible when prepared correctly.

• Fresh green seeds can be pickled
• Pickled seeds are often called “poor man’s capers”

They have a strong, peppery flavour and are used in salads, sauces, and savoury dishes.

How to Use Nasturtiums in Cooking

Nasturtiums are very versatile in the kitchen.

Common uses include:

⭐ Recommended Products — Garden & Allotment Essentials for March

March is when the growing season truly begins. Seeds are being sown daily, beds are prepared and late frosts are still possible — these essentials help produce strong plants and a successful start.

Seed Trays, Modules & Propagation Kits — perfect for tomatoes, brassicas, lettuce, onions and flowers. 👉 Click here to see top options

Heated Propagators, Heat Mats & Grow Lights — improves germination and prevents leggy seedlings during cold nights. 👉 Click here to see top options

Seed & Cutting Compost — essential for healthy seedlings and strong root growth. 👉 Click here to see top options

Garden Fleece & Plant Protection Covers — protects seedlings, potatoes and early plantings from late frost. 👉 Click here to see top options

Spring Vegetable Seeds — carrots, beetroot, peas, spinach and salads can all be started now. 👉 Click here to see top options

Garden Kneeler & Seat — makes long sowing and planting sessions far more comfortable. 👉 Click here to see top options

Pressure Washer (Greenhouse & Patio Cleaning) — clean patios, paths and greenhouses before planting. 👉 Click here to see top options

Solar Garden Lights — perfect for enjoying the garden during brighter spring evenings. 👉 Click here to see top options

• Leaves in salads and sandwiches
• Flowers as edible garnishes
• Chopped leaves in pestos and sauces
• Leaves added to omelettes and soft cheeses
• Pickled seeds as a caper substitute

Cooking slightly reduces the peppery heat, while raw use keeps the flavour bold.

Are Nasturtiums Healthy to Eat?

Yes. Nasturtiums contain beneficial nutrients, including:

• Vitamin C
• Antioxidants
• Natural antimicrobial compounds

Historically, they were used in herbal remedies, particularly for immune and respiratory support.

Can You Eat Nasturtiums Every Day?

Nasturtiums are safe to eat in moderation. Their strong flavour means a little goes a long way, and they are best eaten as part of a varied diet rather than in large quantities every day.

People with sensitive stomachs may prefer younger leaves, which are milder.

Are Nasturtiums Safe for Everyone?

Nasturtiums are safe for most people, but:

• Avoid eating plants treated with pesticides
• Introduce them slowly if you’ve never eaten them before
• Stop eating if you experience irritation

As with any edible plant, moderation is key.

Do Nasturtiums Taste Better Raw or Cooked?

Both are good, depending on preference.

• Raw: Strong, peppery, fresh
• Cooked: Milder, softer flavour

Most people prefer them raw to enjoy their distinctive taste.

Growing Nasturtiums for Eating

To grow nasturtiums for eating:

• Use poor to moderately fertile soil
• Avoid chemical feeds and sprays
• Harvest regularly to encourage fresh growth

Plants grown in poor soil often have the best flavour.

Final Thoughts: Are Nasturtiums Edible?

Nasturtiums are one of the most useful edible flowers you can grow. Easy, fast-growing, and completely edible, they provide peppery leaves, colourful flowers, and flavourful seeds that can all be used in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for a plant that combines beauty, flavour, and simplicity, nasturtiums are an excellent choice.