Plant Profile: Empress of India

Empress of India Nasturtium

Scientific Name: Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India'

Plant Type: Annual

Difficulty: Easy

Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Height: 10-16 inches (25-40 cm)

Spread: 12-24 inches (30-60 cm)

Seeds Produced: Approximately 100-500+ seeds per plant

What Is It?

Empress of India Nasturtium is a striking heirloom variety of garden nasturtium known for its deep crimson-red flowers contrasted against rich blue-green foliage. Introduced in the late 19th century, it remains one of the most popular ornamental and edible nasturtiums. Every above-ground part of the plant, including the flowers, leaves, and immature seeds, is edible and offers a pleasantly peppery flavor similar to watercress.

Historical Uses

Native to South America, nasturtiums were introduced to Europe during the 16th century and quickly became popular as ornamental garden plants. By the Victorian era, the 'Empress of India' cultivar had become a celebrated heirloom for its dramatic coloring and compact growth habit. Nasturtiums have long been valued not only for their beauty but also for their edible flowers and traditional herbal uses.

Growing Information

Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil with low to moderate fertility

Water Requirements: Moderate. Water regularly until established, then only during prolonged dry periods.

Plant Height: 10-16 inches (25-40 cm)

Spread: 12-24 inches (30-60 cm)

Spacing: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)

Germination Time: 7-14 days

Time to Bloom: 55-70 days

Where Should It Be Grown?

✓ Raised Beds

✓ Containers

✓ Hanging Baskets

✓ Planters

✓ Directly in Garden Soil

✓ Vegetable Gardens

Empress of India Nasturtium performs well as a border plant, companion plant, or ornamental accent. It also works beautifully cascading over containers and raised beds.

Wildlife Protection: Generally not required. Deer and rabbits typically avoid mature nasturtiums, although young seedlings may occasionally be browsed. Aphids are often attracted to nasturtiums, making them an excellent trap crop for protecting nearby vegetables.

How to Grow

Direct sow seeds after all danger of frost has passed. Soaking the seeds overnight before planting can improve germination.

Plant seeds approximately ½-1 inch (1-2.5 cm) deep. Avoid overly rich soil or excessive fertilizer, as this encourages abundant foliage at the expense of flowers.

Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season.

Harvesting

Harvest leaves and flowers throughout the growing season as needed. Young leaves have the mildest flavor, while mature flowers make colorful edible garnishes.

For seed saving, allow the seed pods to mature and dry on the plant until they become light brown and easily detach.

Seed Collection & Storage

Collection Method:

Collect mature seeds after they have naturally fallen from the plant or when they easily separate from the stem. Allow seeds to air dry for several additional days before storage to ensure all remaining moisture has evaporated.

Storage Method:

Store seeds in a non-bleached paper envelope, amber glass jar, or airtight container in a cool, dark, dry location.

Seed Viability:

Approximately 5-7 years when properly stored.

Nutritional Benefits

The leaves and flowers are an excellent source of:

• Vitamin C

• Vitamin A

• Lutein

• Manganese

• Iron

• Antioxidants

• Naturally occurring glucosinolates

Immature green seed pods can also be pickled and used as a substitute for capers.

Additional Benefits

• Fully edible flowers, leaves, and immature seeds

• Excellent companion plant

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

• Serves as a trap crop for aphids, helping protect nearby vegetables

• Low maintenance and drought tolerant once established

• Excellent for containers and borders

• Easy for beginner gardeners

• Long blooming season from summer until frost

Interesting Fact

The brilliant flowers of nasturtiums don't just look beautiful, they're edible too. Because of their naturally peppery flavor, they have been used for centuries to add color and a spicy kick to salads, sandwiches, compound butters, and even desserts, making them one of the few ornamental flowers that is as useful in the kitchen as it is in the garden.