Nasturtium Spitfire seeds | vibrant & fresh Tropaeolum seeds

🌱 Tropaeolum majus — Nasturtium, Indian Cress, Capuchina

Nasturtium Spitfire seeds are a unique variety of nasturtium seeds, sourced organically from around the world. These annual herbaceous lianas have weak stems, allowing them to either creep and form a soil cover or climb with support.

🌿 Botanical Description

Tropaeolum majus is an annual herbaceous climber that can grow up to 3 meters in height. Its stems are weak and can be supported with a trellis or other climbing aid. The leaves are palmate, with 5-7 lobes, and are 5-10 cm in diameter. The flowers are up to 5 cm in diameter and have a densely orange-red color with a long, thin, curved spur. The fruit is a capsule that splits open to release the seeds.

🌾 Growing & Agrotechnics

• Sow seeds at a depth of 1-2 cm in well-drained soil in early spring or late summer. Pre-treatment with cold stratification is not required.
• Germinate at temperatures between 15-20°C (59-68°F) in 7-10 days.
• Soil type: well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0.
• Water regularly and provide support for the climbing stems.
• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9, frost tolerance: moderate.

🗺️ Natural Growing Areas

Tropaeolum majus is native to South America, specifically in the Andes mountains. It thrives in temperate climates with mild winters and warm summers. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, from rocky outcrops to woodland edges, at elevations up to 2,000 meters.

✨ Interesting Facts

Nasturtiums have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in the treatment of skin conditions and respiratory issues. The leaves and flowers are edible and can be used as a garnish or in salads. The plant is also a natural pest repellent, attracting aphid-eating insects and other beneficial insects.

🌸 Culinary & Medicinal Uses

The leaves and flowers of Tropaeolum majus are edible and can be used in salads, as a garnish, or as a cooked green. The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions and respiratory issues.