Tropaeolum minus Baby Orange (Nasturtium)

Tropaeolum minus 'Baby Orange' (Nasturtium) is a compact, bushy annual or short-lived perennial forming a small mound of rounded, parasol-like, dark green leaves. Blooming from winter through spring in mild winter areas and from summer to fall in colder climates, it boasts a profusion of long-stalked, funnel-shaped, tangerine flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm). The blossoms make a fantastic contrast to the dark foliage. They do not flop and remain upright throughout the season. This petite Nasturtium is ideal for containers and small space gardens.

• Grows up to 12 in. tall and wide (30 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in poor, well-drained soils. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer areas. Rich, fertile soils are not recommended as they yield more foliage but reduce flowering. Drought-tolerant once established.
• Nasturtium is perennial in hardiness zones 9-11 and grown as an annual plant elsewhere. It relishes cooler temperatures (in the 70sºF or 20sºC) and often sulks in extremely dry or humid conditions.
• Nasturtium is versatile and can be used in beds and borders, rock gardens, edgings, as a ground cover, or in mass plantings.
• It adds a touch of old-fashioned charm in herb gardens, cottage gardens, or patio containers.
• Nasturtium is also an excellent choice to mix with spring-flowering bulbs since it can effectively hide the unattractive bulb foliage that may be allowed to mature.
• Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators are drawn to the flowers, making Nasturtium a valuable addition to the vegetable garden.
• Nasturtium is a good companion plant for beans, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, kale, melon, pumpkin, and radish.
• Nasturtium can also be used as a trap crop, trapping pests such as aphids and giving a more appealing and delicious meal than nearby vegetable crops.
• Nasturtiums rank among the most common edible flowers. The delicate blossoms have a sweet, peppery taste similar to watercress. Leaves and unripe seed pods add a citrusy and peppery flavor to salads. Flower buds contain mustard oil and may be used for seasonings. The flowers add eye-catching beauty to the plate and can be used to garnish salads, platters, and savory dishes.
• Few insects or diseases bother Nasturtiums. Watch for blackflies (black aphids), caterpillars, flea beetles, slugs, and glasshouse whiteflies. Deer resistant.
• Deadhead to prolong flowering.
• Propagate by seed. Sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed or indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost date.
• Avoid fertilization, which tends to increase foliage and decrease flowering.
• Nasturtium will self-seed, keeping a presence in the garden.
• Tropaeolum minus is native to Central and South America.
• Nasturtium is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.