Ultimate Guide to Garden Nasturtium Varieties
Tropaeolum majus
By the Greg Editorial Team
Jul 28, 2024•3 min read
This article was created with the help of AI so we can cover more plants for you. May contain errors. See one? Report it here.
- 🌸 Diverse flower colors and shapes make each nasturtium cultivar unique.
- 🌿 Variegated to deep-hued foliage offers more than just blooms.
- 📏 From compact to trailing, growth habits vary widely among cultivars.
Cultivar Characteristics
Garden Nasturtium cultivars are a parade of diversity, each with its own unique flair. Let's delve into the traits that set them apart.
🌺 Flower Variations
- Colors range from creamy yellows to fiery reds, with some cultivars boasting multiple hues in a single bloom.
- Shapes vary too, from the classic trumpet to frilly doubles, offering a visual feast for garden enthusiasts.
🌿 Growth Habits
- Cultivars can be compact, perfect for borders, or vigorous climbers, ideal for draping over trellises.
- Some hybrids may exhibit a robust growth, surprising gardeners with their resilience and vigor.
🍃 Foliage Differences
- Leaves come in an array of patterns, from the traditional green to variegated forms with splashes of white or cream.
- The texture and size of the leaves can also differ, adding another layer of interest to these versatile plants.
Popular Cultivars
🎨 Alaska Series
The Alaska Series is a standout with its eye-catching variegated foliage, where each leaf is a canvas of green splashed with creamy white. These compact plants, reaching about 12 to 15 inches in height, are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any garden space. The vibrant blooms come in a range of colors, making them a true spectacle when they burst into flower.
- Variegated Foliage: Green leaves with white spots.
- Vibrant Blooms: A mix of colors that pop against the foliage.
💎 Jewel Mix
Jewel Mix nasturtiums are like a treasure chest of colors, offering a spectrum that spans from warm oranges to deep reds and even soft yellows. This mix doesn't just dazzle with color; it's also known for its semi-double flowers that give a fuller appearance. Care for these gems is straightforward, but they do appreciate a bit of extra attention to truly shine.
- Color Spectrum: Wide variety including cherry rose and salmon pink.
- Care Considerations: Thrives with regular watering and some sun.
👑 Empress of India
The 'Empress of India' cultivar is royalty in the nasturtium world, boasting deep crimson flowers that command attention. Its compact growth habit, typically around 12 inches tall, makes it an ideal choice for borders or containers where space is at a premium.
- Crimson Flowers: Rich, deep red hues.
- Compact Growth: Smaller size for tight spaces.
🌀 Whirlybird Series
The Whirlybird Series takes nasturtiums to new heights with its semi-double flowers that seem to twirl in the breeze. These compact plants are versatile, fitting neatly into garden beds or containers. Their unique flower structure sets them apart from the standard nasturtium varieties, offering a delightful twist on the classic.
- Double Flowers: Semi-double blooms that add dimension.
- Growth Comparison: Compact and versatile for various garden settings.
Unique and Rare Varieties
🌙 Moonlight Nasturtium
- Pale Yellow Blooms: Moonlight Nasturtium captivates with its soft, pale yellow flowers, reminiscent of a delicate sunrise.
- Variegated Leaves: The foliage is a tapestry of green, creating a striking contrast against the gentle bloom hues.
⚫ Black Velvet Nasturtium
- Velvety Black Flowers: Black Velvet boasts deep, velvety flowers that absorb light, creating a dramatic visual effect.
- Growth and Care: This hybrid thrives with ample sunlight, its unique coloration a testament to its distinctiveness.
🌋 Phoenix Nasturtium
- Fiery Blooms: Phoenix erupts in a blaze of reds, oranges, and yellows, with split petals that dance like flames.
- Plant Habit: Its growth pattern is a lively departure from the traditional, adding a wild flair to gardens.
🐤 Canary Creeper
- Trailing Beauty: Canary Creeper trails gracefully, its yellow flowers cascading like a waterfall of sunshine.
- Support and Care: Providing support encourages its climbing nature, allowing it to reach its full, stunning potential.
⚠️ Safety First
This content is for general information and may contain errors, omissions, or outdated details. It is not medical, veterinary advice, or an endorsement of therapeutic claims.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any plant as food, medicine, or supplement.
Never eat any plant (or feed one to pets) without confirming its identity with at least two trusted sources.
If you suspect poisoning, call Poison Control (800) 222-1222, the Pet Poison Helpline (800) 213-6680, or your local emergency service immediately.
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