Nasturtium

* Common name: Nasturtium

* Botanical name: Tropaeolum majus

* What it is: Nasturtiums are old-fashioned annual flowers with wide petals and rounded leaves that are some of the easiest to start from seed planted directly into the ground in late April through early May.

Most varieties bloom in bright colors, such as orange, red, and yellow, although pastel colors are available as well. Both the flowers and leaves are edible (the flavor is mildly peppery).

Some nasturtiums grow in spreading mounds. Others will climb if given a support and a little help getting started.

* Size: Anywhere from 1 to 4 feet tall, depending on variety. Plant seeds about 6 inches apart.

* Where to use: Any sunny spot where you’d like bright, season-long color. Nasturtiums grow equally well in the ground or in pots or baskets. They’ll fill a bed quickly, and they’re good choices for color in a children’s garden.

* Care: Keep the soil consistently damp until the seeds have sprouted, then water once or twice a week whenever the weather is hot and dry.

Fertilizer usually isn’t necessary, although a scattering of organic, granular flower fertilizer or similar long-acting flower fertilizer is helpful at planting (or if your soil is poor).

Snip back any overly long “arms” throughout the season. Yank plants in fall after frost kills them.

* Great partner: Can stand alone in a mass or pairs well with taller zinnias, which are other sun-loving annuals that can be directly seeded at the same time.