Indian Cress: The Colorful Edible Plant with Medicinal Power

Indian cress, scientifically known as Tropaeolum majus, is a vibrant flowering plant native to South and Central America but widely grown across the world, including in India. Often called nasturtium, Indian cress is renowned not just for its eye-catching red, orange, and yellow flowers, but also for its culinary, ornamental, and medicinal uses.

Despite its common name, Indian cress is not related to garden cress (Lepidium sativum) or watercress (Nasturtium officinale), though all share a peppery, mustard-like flavor profile.

Botanical Classification

• Scientific name: Tropaeolum majus
• Family: Tropaeolaceae
• Common names: Indian cress, garden nasturtium, monks cress, flame flower
• Native to: Peru, Bolivia, Colombia
• Grown in: India, Europe, North America, Africa, and Southeast Asia

Plant Characteristics

Appearance

• Leaves: Rounded, almost lily-pad-like with a central stem point.
• Flowers: Brightly colored—usually yellow, red, or orange with five petals.
• Growth Habit: Can grow as a trailing vine or compact bush, depending on the variety.
• Height: Typically 1 to 3 feet; trailing types can reach up to 10 feet.

Growing Season

• Thrives in warm climates.
• Prefers full sunlight and well-drained soil.
• Typically grows best from spring to early autumn.

Edible Uses of Indian Cress

One of the standout features of Indian cress is that all parts of the plant are edible—leaves, flowers, and even seeds.

Leaves

• Flavor: Peppery, similar to arugula or mustard greens.
• Use: Tossed in salads, blended into pesto, or used as a spicy garnish.

Flowers

• Flavor: Mildly spicy and slightly sweet.
• Use: Edible decoration on cakes, open sandwiches, salads.

Seeds

• Flavor: Strong peppery taste.
• Use: Pickled and used as a substitute for capers (often called “poor man’s capers”).

Medicinal Properties and Health Benefits

Indian cress has been used traditionally for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and expectorant properties.

1. Rich in Vitamin C

Helps boost the immune system and fight off common colds and infections.

2. Antimicrobial

Natural compounds in the plant help combat bacterial and fungal infections, especially in the respiratory and urinary tracts.

3. Anti-inflammatory

Used in folk remedies to reduce swelling and inflammation from minor wounds and insect bites.

4. Wound Healing

Leaves were traditionally mashed and applied as a poultice to accelerate healing.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies medicinally.

Companion Planting Benefits

In gardening, Indian cress is a natural pest deterrent.

• Repels: Aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs.
• Attracts: Pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Protects: Cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage) from harmful pests.

Its dense foliage also helps in weed suppression when used as a ground cover.

Cultural and Historical Notes

• The name Tropaeolum comes from the Latin word tropaeum, meaning trophy. The leaves and flowers resemble shields and helmets.
• Once considered a symbol of patriotism and victory in European war gardens.
• Widely used in Indian home gardens for decoration and practical uses.

How to Grow Indian Cress

Propagation

• Grown from seeds, which germinate easily in warm soil.
• Direct sowing is ideal, as roots dislike transplanting.

Care Tips

• Water moderately; avoid waterlogging.
• Fertilize lightly—too much nitrogen can reduce flowering.
• Pinch off dead flowers to encourage new blooms.

Popular Varieties

Variety Name	Description
Alaska	Mottled white-green leaves; compact
Empress of India	Deep red flowers; dwarf variety
Jewel Mix	Mixed colors; bushy and bright
Tall Climbing Mix	Long vines; ideal for trellises

Culinary Inspiration: How to Use Indian Cress

• Salads: Add fresh flowers and leaves for color and spice.
• Sandwiches: Use leaves instead of lettuce for a peppery kick.
• Pesto: Blend leaves with nuts, garlic, and olive oil.
• Pickled Seeds: Harvest green seeds and pickle them like capers.
• Herbal Teas: Use dried leaves in herbal infusions (mildly spicy).

Safety and Precautions

• Indian cress is generally safe to eat in moderate quantities.
• Avoid excessive use during pregnancy or in case of kidney disorders, as it may irritate the urinary tract.
• Always wash flowers and leaves before consumption to remove insects or pesticides.

Final Thoughts

Indian cress is a rare example of a plant that’s as useful as it is beautiful. Whether you’re a chef, gardener, herbalist, or simply someone who loves vibrant flowers, Indian cress offers color, nutrition, and function all in one package.