How to Grow Empress of India
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Empress of India
Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India'
flowerEmpress of India is a compact, bushy cultivar of garden nasturtium prized for its deep crimson-red flowers and dark blue-green foliage. This ornamental annual produces abundant blooms throughout the growing season and is highly attractive to pollinators. It's perfect for borders, containers, and as an edible flower accent in gardens.
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Example Empress of India timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Empress of India
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Empress of India blooms
Around May 22≈ 35 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Empress of India dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11 as an annual; prefers cooler zones as it struggles in intense summer heat
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Seedling
2-3 weeksEmergence of rounded cotyledons followed by true leaves; plant develops distinctive blue-green foliage from the start
Maintain consistent moisture; provide bright light; thin seedlings to proper spacing; avoid overwatering to prevent damping off
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksBushy, compact mounding growth with increasingly dark blue-green peltate leaves; plant fills out to full width
Water regularly; pinch growing tips once if needed for bushier form; minimal fertilizer needed; avoid high-nitrogen feed which promotes foliage over flowers
Flowering
6-8 weeks or until frostDeep crimson-red flowers appear above foliage; blooms are semi-double to fully double depending on conditions; continuous flower production
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms; maintain consistent watering; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; fertilize sparingly with balanced formula
Peak Bloom
4-6 weeksPlant is covered with abundant crimson flowers; excellent garden display; flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds
Continue regular deadheading; monitor for pests; ensure adequate water during peak heat; enjoy as cut flowers or edible garnish
Decline & Frost
Until first frostFlowering slows as temperatures drop in fall or first frost approaches; foliage may yellow; plant dies back completely after frost
Allow some flowers to remain unharvested if you want self-seeding; harvest seeds before killing frost if desired; remove plant debris after frost kill
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Handpick beetles; apply neem oil weekly; remove heavily infested leaves
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and
Remove by hand; use copper barriers; apply organic slug bait; encourage natural predators
Uses
Edible Flowers & Peppery Garnish
CulinaryNasturtium flowers have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor and are prized as ornamental edible garnishes for salads, dishes, and desserts. The blooms add vibrant color and a unique peppery bite to fresh cuisine. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalNasturtium has been used in traditional herbalism to support immune function and respiratory health due to its glucosinolate compounds. Leaves and flowers have mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Natural Pest Deterrent & Companion Plant
HouseholdNasturtium serves as a trap crop for aphids and other pests, protecting vegetable gardens by drawing pests away from valuable crops. It's a classic companion planting strategy in organic gardening. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe long stems and vibrant crimson blooms make Empress of India excellent as cut flowers for small bouquets and arrangements, lasting 7-10 days in a vase. [source]
Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeNasturtium flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, making this cultivar an excellent choice for pollinator gardens and wildlife-supporting landscapes. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pick flowers frequently for continuous blooming; flowers are edible with a peppery taste and can be used in salads; harvest in morning when fully open; for seed saving, allow spent flowers to develop seed pods, collect when brown and dry
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'nasturtium' comes from the Latin 'nasus tortus' meaning 'twisted nose,' allegedly because the sharp spicy scent makes people's noses twitch
- 🌱 Empress of India's dark blue-green foliage is unusual for nasturtiums and provides striking contrast to its crimson flowers, making it a favorite ornamental variety
- 🌱 Both the flowers and round leaves are edible and have been used in salads since the plant's arrival in Europe from South America in the 16th century
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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