Dwarf Nasturtium
Orchid Cream Nasturtium is a compact heirloom variety that delivers an unexpectedly dramatic display of creamy blooms strikingly splashed with blood red, petals so intricately painted they genuinely resemble miniature orchids. Native to the Tropaeolum genus, this dwarf nasturtium reaches just 12 inches tall and 10 inches wide, making it perfect for containers, borders, or anywhere you want concentrated color impact. It matures in 50-60 days and thrives in hardiness zones 9-11, blooming reliably in full sun with minimal fuss.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-11
?in H x ?in W
Annual, Perennial
Moderate
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What sets Orchid Cream apart is the sheer artistry of its flowers, each petal's creamy base appears hand-painted with dramatic blood-red brushstrokes that catch light from every angle. The compact 12-inch growth habit means you get maximum floral impact without sprawl, ideal for small spaces where every square inch matters. As an annual that requires just 50-60 days to burst into bloom, it delivers fast, reliable color without demanding special attention or perfect soil conditions.
Orchid Cream Nasturtium is grown primarily as an ornamental flower, prized for its container displays, compact garden borders, and cut flower arrangements where its unusual orchid-like blooms add unexpected elegance. The edible flowers are edible and work beautifully as a garnish, though this variety is selected for visual drama rather than culinary quantity.
You can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last spring frost. Soak seeds overnight or nick the seed coat gently to improve germination. Sow at 70°F in well-draining seed mix, placing seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep. Seeds typically sprout in 7-14 days. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during germination.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7-10 days by exposing them to increasing amounts of outdoor light and wind. Transplant outdoors only after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to at least 60°F. Handle seedlings carefully as nasturtiums have tender roots. Space transplants 8-12 inches apart.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date once soil has warmed to 60°F or above. Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and 8-12 inches apart. Keep soil consistently moist until germination occurs in 7-14 days, then reduce watering frequency.
For flowers intended as ornamental cut blooms or edible garnishes, harvest in the morning when petals are fully open and most turgid. Pinch or cut flowers at the base of the stem, removing them regularly to encourage continued blooming throughout the growing season. With 50-60 days to maturity, flowers begin appearing around midsummer and continue until the first frost.
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