Empress of India Heirloom Nasturtium Flower Seeds

Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds

Bring bold color, edible beauty, and pollinator power to your garden with Garden Heirloom’s Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds. This classic heirloom variety is prized for its deep crimson-red flowers, dark blue-green foliage, and easy-growing nature. Perfect for flower beds, borders, containers, and companion planting, Empress of India nasturtiums add beauty while helping support a healthier garden ecosystem.

History

Introduced in the late 1800s, Empress of India Nasturtium quickly became a favorite among home gardeners for its striking contrast of scarlet blooms and dark foliage. This heirloom flower variety has remained popular for generations thanks to its reliable growth, edible flowers and leaves, and exceptional ornamental value.

Plant Profile

• Days to Maturity: 55–70 days
• Flower Size: Approximately 2–2.5 inches across
• Plant Size: 12–18 inches tall and 12–24 inches wide
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy trailing annual
• Bloom Color: Deep crimson-red flowers with dark foliage

Flavor Profile

Nasturtium flowers and leaves have a mildly peppery flavor similar to arugula or watercress. The blossoms add a colorful, slightly spicy touch to salads, garnishes, sandwiches, and herbal dishes.

Growth Type & Garden Performance

• Compact bush-type nasturtium
• Excellent for borders, raised beds, hanging baskets, and containers
• Continuous blooms through summer and early fall
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
• Low-maintenance and drought tolerant once established

Disease Resistance

Empress of India Nasturtiums are generally hardy and resistant to most common garden problems when grown in well-drained soil with good airflow. They also help distract aphids from nearby vegetables, making them useful companion plants.

Growing Tips & Planting Dimensions

• Sow seeds directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed
• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• Plant seeds ½–1 inch deep
• Space plants 10–12 inches apart
• Thrives in average to poor soil—overly rich soil may reduce blooms
• Water regularly until established, then moderately
• Avoid excessive fertilizing for best flower production

When to Plant

Start seeds outdoors after the final spring frost when soil temperatures have warmed. In cooler climates, seeds may also be started indoors 2–4 weeks before transplanting carefully.

For your local planting dates and growing zone information, visit: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Good Companion Plants & Mutual Benefits

• Tomatoes – Helps attract pollinators and may lure aphids away from tomato plants
• Cucumbers – Encourages beneficial insects while adding ground cover
• Squash & Melons – Attracts pollinators needed for fruit production
• Beans – Adds biodiversity and supports pollinator activity
• Broccoli & Cabbage Family Crops – Can help distract aphids and cabbage pests
• Peppers – Bright flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects nearby
• Herbs – Pairs beautifully with basil, dill, and parsley in edible gardens

How to Enjoy

• Add edible flowers to fresh salads
• Garnish soups, appetizers, and desserts
• Grow in decorative patio containers and window boxes
• Use as colorful edging in vegetable gardens
• Enjoy vibrant blooms that attract butterflies and hummingbirds

Why Gardeners Love Empress of India Nasturtiums

• Stunning crimson flowers with unique dark foliage
• Easy to grow from seed
• Edible flowers and leaves
• Excellent companion plant for vegetable gardens
• Pollinator-friendly blooms all season long
• Ideal for small gardens and containers

Harvest Tips

Harvest flowers early in the morning for the best freshness and flavor. Young leaves are most tender for salads and culinary use. Frequent picking encourages continued blooming throughout the growing season.

Order Today

Add bold heirloom beauty and edible color to your garden with Garden Heirloom Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds. Easy to grow, pollinator-friendly, and packed with old-fashioned charm, these vibrant flowers are a must-have for gardeners of all skill levels.