Edible flowers aren't a new idea. Their history dates back to the Roman era. However, they are enjoying an increase in popularity with restaurants and home cooks wanting to offer something different at mealtime. In addition to adding interesting flavors, flowers add color appeal to food.
Blossoms have a sweet, spicy flavor similar to watercress.
Nasturtiums are an easy plant to grow as well. They thrive in poor soil, sun or light shade and look wonderful in beds or hanging baskets. Many have a mounded growth form, but trailing varieties are available as well. They come in shades of yellow, orange, and red. They have a lemon-verbena scent which is different from the common marigold.