Empress of India Nasturtium | 50 Seeds/Pk

Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds (Tropaeolum majus) – 50+ Heirloom Non-GMO Seeds by Isla’s Garden Seeds, Deep Crimson Blooms & Dark Green Foliage, Edible Flowers, Perfect for Gardens & Containers

Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India'

Empress of India Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a striking heirloom variety cherished for its velvety, deep crimson-red blossoms and contrasting dark blue-green foliage. Unlike trailing nasturtiums, this compact bushy form grows neatly to about 12–14 inches, making it ideal for borders, edging, and container plantings. First introduced in the 19th century, Empress of India quickly gained popularity with gardeners and remains one of the most admired nasturtium varieties for its rich jewel-toned flowers and elegant growth habit.

These vibrant blooms are not only eye-catching but also edible, offering a peppery flavor similar to watercress. Both the blossoms and the rounded leaves can be used to enhance salads, garnishes, and other culinary dishes with color and zest. In the garden, Empress of India is low-maintenance and thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring well-draining, moderately fertile soil. Excessively rich soil will encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers, so they perform best in leaner conditions.

This nasturtium variety is a favorite companion plant, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies while adding visual brilliance to vegetable beds and flower gardens alike. Its compact size makes it perfect for small garden spaces, patios, and window boxes where its velvety blooms will stand out against the rich, dark foliage.

Empress of India Nasturtium blooms generously from late spring through fall, providing continuous color and culinary possibilities. Its adaptability, edible beauty, and timeless charm have secured its place in gardens for well over a century. A true heirloom treasure, this nasturtium continues to enchant gardeners seeking both ornamental appeal and practical versatility.

Type: Annual
Sun: Full
Planting Depth: Broadcast
Spacing: Broadcast
Water: Low
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 55-65 days
Height: 10-12”
Zones: 3-10

Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date, once soil has warmed to at least 55°F. For faster germination, soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before planting. Plant seeds ½–1 inch deep, spacing them 8–12 inches apart in well-draining soil. Choose a location in full sun, though plants will tolerate partial shade.

Keep the soil evenly moist during germination, which typically occurs within 7–14 days. Once established, nasturtiums require only moderate watering and thrive in leaner soils, where they produce more flowers. Avoid excessive fertilization, as rich soil encourages leafy growth at the expense of blooms.

Compact and reliable, Empress of India Nasturtiums will bloom continuously from late spring to fall, rewarding you with rich crimson flowers and lush dark foliage.

Type: Annual
Sun: Full
Planting Depth: Broadcast
Spacing: Broadcast
Water: Low
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 55-65 days
Height: 10-12”
Zones: 3-10

Empress of India Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) grows best in USDA Zones 4–8, but good in 3-10, flourishing as an annual in most regions and blooming reliably from late spring through fall in full sun to partial shade.

Type: Annual
Sun: Full
Planting Depth: Broadcast
Spacing: Broadcast
Water: Low
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 55-65 days
Height: 10-12”
Zones: 3-10