Purple Emperor Nasturtium

BAKER CREEK HEIRLOOM SEEDS

The Purple Emperor Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a captivating flowering plant with unique coloration. Here are some details about it:

• Color Transformation: The blooms of Purple Emperor start as bold burgundy-purple and gradually evolve into a vintage dusty lavender-rose hue throughout the season. This color shift is quite bewitching!
• Growth Habit: Purple Emperor is a semi-trailing variety, forming compact vines that reach 18-24 inches in length. Its tumbling vines are adorned with rose and wine-colored blooms, making it an incredible edible ornamental.
• Edible Blooms and Leaves: Both the blooms and leaves of Purple Emperor have a peppery flavor, adding a delightful kick to recipes. You can use them in salads or as a beautiful garnish for desserts. Additionally, the green seed pods can be pickled as imitation capers.
• Growing Tips:
  • Start seeds indoors 4-8 weeks before the last frost or sow them directly outdoors after frost.
  • Plant in fine, moist soil.
  • Optimal temperature range for germination: 60-80°F (15-27°C).
  • Space plants 8-12 inches apart.
  • Purple Emperor is an annual plant and prefers full sun to part sun exposure. It does not tolerate frost.