Nasturtium Seeds 'Crimson Emperor' is a semi-trailing variety, perfect as glamorous groundcover or...Nasturtium Seeds 'Crimson Emperor' is a semi-trailing variety, perfect as glamorous groundcover or simply sensational spilling from hanging baskets and patio pots. Your plants will burst into bloom with masses of deep crimson flowers with golden yellow throats over the sprawling stems and lush green foliage of this vigorous variety. Enjoy the fabulous flowers from June to September. Culinary note: the peppery flavour of the leaves and colourful flowers will enrich salads and the unripe seeds can be used like capers – delicious combined with cream cheese or butter in canapés.
Direct sow nasturtiums outdoors where they are to grow from March to May. Choose a position in full sun on well-drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow nasturtium seeds thinly, at a depth of 20mm (3/4") in drills spaced 30cm (12") apart and cover seed with its own depth of soil. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. Germination usually takes 7-12 days. When nasturtium seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 30cm (12") apart. Alternatively, sow nasturtiums indoors from at a temperature of 15-25C (59-77F). When nasturtium plants are large enough to handle, transplant and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors after all risk of frost has passed.
Product specifications:
Position: Full Sun
Height: Up to 30cm when fully established
Spread: Up to 180cm when fully established
Supplied as 1x packet Nasturtium 'Crimson Emperor' (approx. 30 seeds)
Flowering period: June to September
Delivered with growing and care instructions
Images shown are for guidance only of the expected results from plants upon maturity. Different growing conditions might vary results. Image may be included for illustration of supply but can vary due to seasonality changes (e.g. deciduous plants lose leaves in colder months).
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Product Information
Full details
The Thompson & Morgan Nasturtium 'Crimson Emperor' is an ideal choice for home gardeners seeking a vigorous, semi-trailing plant that offers both aesthetic beauty and culinary utility. Perfectly suited for groundcover, hanging baskets, or patio pots, this variety produces deep crimson flowers with golden throats from June through September; however, gardeners should note that it thrives best in full sun and requires protection from frost.
All features
Model Part Number
23975
Brand
Thompson & Morgan
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Are the flowers and leaves safe to eat?
Yes, both the leaves and flowers of the 'Crimson Emperor' are edible and offer a distinct, peppery flavor.
When is the best time to plant these seeds?
You can sow them outdoors from March to May, once the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed.
How much space does one plant need?
While individual plants can be thinned to 30cm, they can spread up to 180cm, so ensure you have enough horizontal space.
Can I grow these in pots?
Absolutely. They are excellent for hanging baskets and patio containers due to their semi-trailing habit.
How do I use the seeds for cooking?
Unripe green seeds can be pickled in vinegar to be used as a flavorful substitute for capers.
Does the plant need full sun?
Yes, for the best performance and maximum flowering, choose a position in full sun.
Troubleshooting
Seeds failing to germinate
Ensure soil temperature is within the 15-25C range and that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Plant looks leggy and has few flowers
This is likely due to insufficient light; move the plant to a location with full, direct sun.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Adds immediate, high-impact color to garden beds and containers
Edible flowers, leaves, and seeds provide culinary variety
Easy to grow for beginners
Attracts pollinators to the garden
Excellent for covering bare soil or spilling over edges
Cons
Not frost-hardy and must be planted after the final spring frost
Requires full sun exposure to reach peak flowering potential
Can become quite sprawling, requiring adequate space
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Instructions
Outdoor Sowing: Sow from March to May in full sun. Place seeds 20mm deep in rows spaced 30cm apart.
Indoor Sowing: Start seeds in temperatures between 15-25C. Transplant seedlings outdoors only after all risk of frost has passed.
Care & Maintenance
Soil: Ensure the site has well-drained soil raked to a fine tilth.
Watering: Maintain a regular watering schedule, particularly during hot, dry spells.
Thinning: Once seedlings are handleable, thin them to a 30cm spacing to ensure proper airflow and room to grow.
Protection: Monitor for frost; this plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected during early spring or late autumn chills.