Nasturtium 'Purple Emperor'

Purple Emperor Nasturtium (Tropaeolum minus)

A truly regal variety, Purple Emperor Nasturtium opens in smoky raspberry tones veined with cranberry, then fades beautifully through antique rose to lavender as each bloom matures. This evolving colour show makes it a favourite for fresh bouquets, edible garnishes, and elegant garden displays.

Semi-trailing in habit, the vines reach 18–24" long—compact enough for containers or borders, with just enough length to softly spill or weave through neighbouring plants. Both leaves and flowers are edible, adding a peppery zing to salads. Drought tolerant and easy to grow, it’s also ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun/Part Shade

DEPTH: 1/2-1"

GERMINATION: 7 - 14 days at 16 - 18°C

HEIGHT: 16" - 20” Varies. Trellising is useful for climbing/trailing varieties as they will need support to climb.

MATURITY: 55 - 65 Days

SPACING: Thin to 3-5 plants in hanging baskets or 10" containers.

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:
Direct Sow (recommended): Nasturtiums are best grown from seed sown directly into the garden. Sow seeds ½"–1" deep outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Nasturtiums germinate best in darkness, so be sure to cover the seeds well.

Transplant (alternative): While direct sowing is preferred, nasturtiums can be started indoors 3–4 weeks before planting out. Sow into individual pots or cells, covering seeds completely. Keep soil temperatures around 18∘C–21∘C (65∘F–70∘F). Handle seedlings carefully, as their roots are sensitive to disturbance. Harden off and transplant after the last frost.

Pinching: Pinching is not required, as nasturtiums naturally form a mounding or trailing habit depending on the variety. Deadheading spent blooms can help encourage continued flowering throughout the season.

Soil Preference and Watering: Nasturtiums prefer full sun and average to slightly poor, well-drained soil. They are not heavy feeders; too much fertility can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms. Water consistently, but avoid overwatering once established.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not required for nasturtiums.

Harvesting: All parts of the nasturtium plant are edible—from the leaves and flowers to the seeds. The leaves and flowers have a peppery taste and can be harvested as needed for fresh use in salads or as a garnish.