An Elegant and Intense Capucine
Seeds of Nasturtium 'Empress of India' (Tropaeolum majus), offered by the seed company OSC.
Nasturtium 'Empress of India' is a compact, bushy variety, famous for its blue-green foliage that highlights its beautiful scarlet-red flowers . Unlike classic nasturtiums, this variety grows into small, dense bushes , perfect for beds, borders, pots and window boxes .
Easy to grow, it adapts to poor and well-drained soils , while offering abundant flowering from the beginning of summer until the first frosts . Honey-producing and naturally repellent , it attracts pollinators and helps protect the vegetable garden from aphids. Its flowers and leaves are edible , bringing a decorative and spicy touch to salads and summer dishes.
Spread : 30-40 cm
Plant height : 30 cm
Companion plants : Tomatoes, cabbages, radishes, beans
Enemy plants : None, but avoid soils that are too rich which promote foliage to the detriment of flowers.
Cultivation method:
- Direct sowing in open ground after the last frost, spacing the seeds 25-30 cm apart.
- Sow indoors 2-3 weeks before last frost for earlier flowering.
- Soil and exposure : Prefers well-drained, rather poor soil , and sunny to partial shade exposure.
- Maintenance : Moderate watering, without excess. No staking necessary thanks to its compact and bushy shape.
Use and special features:
✔ Brilliant flowering with a unique contrast between red flowers and blue foliage.
✔ Edible flowers and leaves , with a slightly peppery taste, perfect for cooking.
✔ Honey-producing and repellent plant , ideal for keeping aphids away from the vegetable garden.
✔ Suitable for small spaces , excellent in planters and hanging pots.
A perfect choice for a colorful, useful and easy-to-maintain garden !
