The Story
Plant Bio
Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India' is a compact, bushy plant with vibrant red flowers and unique dark foliage, making it a striking addition to gardens.
Known for its distinctive dark foliage and vivid red blooms, which stand out beautifully in garden settings.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
12 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds ½ inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide support or trellis for climbing growth.
- Mist cuttings or young plants to maintain humidity.
- Thin out overcrowded plants to improve air circulation.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and vigorous growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Support climbing vines with trellises or fences
- Fertilize monthly during blooming season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't plant in shady areas, as it reduces flowering
- Avoid neglecting support structures for climbing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Empress of India Nasturtium questions
What zones can Empress of India Nasturtium grow in?
Empress of India Nasturtium is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Empress of India Nasturtium deer resistant?
Yes — Empress of India Nasturtium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Empress of India Nasturtium bloom?
Empress of India Nasturtium typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Empress of India Nasturtium need full sun?
Empress of India Nasturtium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Empress of India Nasturtium drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Empress of India Nasturtium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Empress of India Nasturtium with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.