Species productivity schedule: Nasturtium officinale.

Abstract

Nasturtium officinale, commonly known as watercress, is formerly known as Rorippa aquaticum, R. microphylla, and Nasturtium microphyllum (Wikipedia, 2012). Watercress has been found in all of the United States except Hawaii and North Dakota and is similarly abundant throughout the world (USDA Plants, 2012). Species including broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and mustard among others can also be found in the Brassicaceae family. Using only background cultural knowledge of the popularity and high nutritional value of the watercress’ close relatives, it can be assumed that this is a plant that has a high utility to its consumer. With only a little research, the impressive nutritional value of watercress is made clear; with more than 15 essential vitamins and minerals, watercress is rated “Mother Nature’s most nutrient dense vegetable” (Watercress.com, 2010).