Tropaeolum majus (60 days) Open-pollinated. Annual. Hailed as a “great novelty” when introduced in 1884, and still popular today. Dark purplish-green edible leaves and stems make a perfect background for the edible spicy-hot brilliant crimson-scarlet flowers that stand out in bold relief. A good contrast with other nasturtium varieties. Do not feed heavily. 16" plants. ②③
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5282
Empress of India
Additional Information
Nasturtium
Annual. The name literally means ‘twisted nose,’ from the Latin nasus for nose and tortus for twist. Edible flowers with a spicy sweet fragrance lend a peppery-sweet taste to salads, with each color adding contrast and subtle variations in flavor. Round leaves also edible, and seeds can be pickled to make “capers.” Formerly used as a remedy against scurvy.
Culture: Blooms keep coming if cut, needs moisture and cool temperatures for optimal blooming. Intolerant of frost. Germinates in 7–10 days at 65°. Cover the seed. Avoid excess nitrogen, but don’t relegate nasties to the worst soil. Likes full sun. Start indoors or direct seed after last frost.
Germination Testing
For the latest results of our germination tests, please see the germination page.
Our Seeds are Non-GMO
All of our seeds are non-GMO, and free of neonicotinoids and fungicides. Fedco is one of the original companies to sign the Safe Seed Pledge.
