Tropaeolum 'Empress of India' is a classic Victorian variety of Nasturtium, the name refers to the title taken by Queen Victoria from 1 May 1876. Prime Minister Disraeli pushed the Royal Titles Act 1876 through Parliament. She reciprocated by giving Disraeli the title of Earl of Beaconsfield.Nasturtium 'Empress of India' is a classic variety with opulent, velvet crimson-scarlet flowers and impressive dark blue-green foliage. The unusual leaf colour makes it an interesting plant even before it begins to bloom.Seldom over 30cm (12in) with a neat compact semi trailing habit, It is very easy to grow and perfect for pots, tubs, window boxes or the border. Hardy annual that flowers in the first season.They make a good plant to use for filling in bare spots throughout the garden or along the edges of your flower and vegetable beds. A single nasturtium seed will produce a spreading plant with lush foliage covering a two square foot area. They can be grown as a groundcover as path edging or in the border or can be planted in containers or window boxes.The flowers and leaves are both edible: a peppery addition to salads, pastas, omelettes, or used as a garnish.
