Dwarf Nasturtium
Cherry Rose Jewel nasturtium is a showstopping heirloom that produces large, double rose-like blooms in vibrant rose-pink, earning its reputation as a serious statement flower in any garden. Hardy in zones 9-11 and reaching just 10-12 inches tall, this compact nasturtium reaches blooming stage in about 60 days and thrives in full sun to partial shade with moderate water. Every part is edible and peppery, flowers, leaves, and immature seed pods, making it equally at home on the dinner plate as it is brightening garden beds, borders, and containers.
Partial Sun
Moderate
9-11
12in H x ?in W
Annual
High
Hover over chart points for details
The double, rose-like flowers are truly eye-catching in their rose-pink intensity, delivering high-voltage color that looks like candy for the eyes in full bloom. All edible parts bring a piquant, peppery punch to fresh salads, pasta, and pesto, while the foliage delivers vitamin A and calcium alongside pure culinary delight. Its compact 10-12 inch stature and 8-inch spacing make it an excellent choice for smaller spaces, containers, and tight garden corners where other nasturtiums might sprawl.
This variety shines as a fresh edible flower in salads, where its peppery bite and rose-pink color add both flavor and visual interest. The tender leaves work beautifully in pesto and pasta dishes, while the immature seed pods offer another edible layer to harvest. Beyond the kitchen, its double blooms and compact height make it a statement flower in borders, containers, and garden beds where high-voltage color is desired.
Start seeds indoors 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date, though this is not recommended for Cherry Rose Jewel due to roots that are sensitive to transplant disturbance. If you do start indoors, use biodegradable pots that can be directly planted in the ground to minimize root disruption. Maintain soil temperature at 55-65°F for optimal germination.
Transplant outdoors after your average last frost date when soil has warmed and frost danger has completely passed. If using seedlings started indoors in biodegradable pots, plant pots directly into the ground at the same depth they were growing. Space transplants 8 inches apart.
Direct sowing is recommended for this variety. Sow seeds outside 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date. In mild climates, you can sow in fall for winter bloom. Sow at a depth of 1/2 to 1 inch, and when seedlings reach 2 inches tall, thin to one plant every 8 to 12 inches.
Begin harvesting flowers and leaves once plants are established and blooming, typically around 60 days after sowing. Pinch off flowers at the base of the bloom stem for fresh use in salads and as plate garnish, harvesting regularly to encourage continued flowering. Pick tender young leaves throughout the growing season before they mature, and harvest immature green seed pods while still small and tender for use in cooking. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more blooms and foliage rather than setting seed.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.