NASTURTIUM ‘Empress of India’ Flower Seeds
Botanical name: Tropaeolum majus
The ‘Empress of India’ nasturtium is a striking heirloom variety featuring deep crimson-red flowers set against a backdrop of rich, dark green foliage. This compact, bushy plant is perfect for borders, garden beds, and containers, adding a bold splash of color to any space. In addition to their ornamental beauty, nasturtiums are edible, with both the flowers and leaves offering a peppery flavor that enhances salads and other culinary dishes. These vibrant blooms also attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies while acting as a natural deterrent for common garden pests.
‘Empress of India’ nasturtiums thrive in various soil conditions, are easy to grow, and will bloom prolifically throughout the summer season. Their low-maintenance nature makes them ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
Plant Information
- Plant Type: Annual
- Plant Height: 25 – 30 cm
- Sow When: Germinates best at soil temperatures of 18 – 22°C
- Temperate: Spring to early autumn, after the last frost
- Subtropical: Spring to autumn
- Tropical: Year-round in warm conditions
- Arid: Spring to early autumn
- Cold: Late spring to early summer, after the danger of frost
Germination Information
- Germination: 7 – 14 days
- Depth: Plant seeds 1 – 2 cm deep
- Position: Full sun to part shade
- Sow Where: Directly into garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets
- Soil Type: Well-drained soil, tolerates poorer soils
- Rows: Space rows 30 cm apart
- Spacing: Plant seeds 20 – 30 cm apart
- Details: Keep well-watered but avoid over-watering. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. These hardy plants require minimal care, but occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer can encourage more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers will promote continuous flowering throughout the season.
Harvest: 8 – 10 weeks after sowing for edible flowers
