How to Grow Crimson and Gold Nasturtium
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Crimson and Gold Nasturtium
Tropaeolum majus 'Crimson and Gold'
flowerCrimson and Gold is a striking nasturtium cultivar featuring vibrant bicolored flowers with deep crimson-red petals and bright golden-yellow centers or edges. This compact, bushy variety grows well in containers and garden beds, producing ornamental foliage and edible flowers. It blooms prolifically throughout summer and fall with minimal care requirements.
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Example Crimson and Gold Nasturtium timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crimson and Gold Nasturtium
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Crimson and Gold Nasturtium blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-11; grown as annual in cooler regions
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Seedling
2-3 weeksCotyledons emerge with distinctive rounded seed leaves; true leaves appear within 1-2 weeks.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light and maintain warmth (65-70°F). Thin seedlings or pot on as needed.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with round, shield-shaped green leaves. Compact growth habit; minimal flowers yet.
Water moderately and allow soil to dry between waterings. Pinch stems early if desired to promote bushier form. Provide full sun for compact growth.
Budding
1-2 weeksFlower buds form in leaf axils; buds appear as small rounded knobs with long spurs characteristic of nasturtiums.
Maintain consistent watering without overdoing it. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; use balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer if needed. Ensure adequate sunlight.
Flowering
6-12+ weeksVibrant crimson-red and golden-yellow bicolored flowers open continuously. Flowers are trumpet-shaped with prominent spurs.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Water regularly but allow some drying between waterings. Monitor for pests attracted to flowers.
Seed Development & Decline
Until frost or end of seasonIf flowers are not deadheaded, round seed pods develop; plant may slow flowering and vigor declines as seeds mature.
Allow some flowers to set seed if desired for self-sowing. In warm climates, plant may continue flowering. Cool fall temperatures signal end of season.
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; reduce nitrogen fertilizer.
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Increase humidity; spray leaves with water; apply neem oil or miticide if severe.
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Remove affected leaves; maintain plant vigor; avoid excessive nitrogen.
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and
Hand-pick; use slug traps with beer; apply diatomaceous earth; remove debris harboring slugs.
Uses
Edible Flowers & Peppery Leaves
CulinaryBoth flowers and leaves are edible with a peppery, slightly spicy flavor reminiscent of watercress or arugula. Use fresh flowers to garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails for striking color and flavor. [source]
Traditional Remedy for Colds and Circulation
MedicinalNasturtium has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support respiratory health and boost circulation. Contains natural compounds believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Natural Pest Deterrent
HouseholdNasturtiums are excellent trap crops that attract aphids and other pests away from vegetables, protecting neighboring plants. This companion planting technique is a natural, chemical-free pest management strategy. [source]
Ornamental Garden Display
CraftThe stunning crimson and gold bicolored flowers make this variety an eye-catching accent in borders, containers, baskets, and mixed plantings. Its compact bushy form works well in small spaces and window boxes. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeVibrant flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial pollinators. The nectar-rich blooms provide an important food source for beneficial insects throughout the growing season. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Flowers are edible and can be harvested anytime they fully open; pick in morning for best flavor and appearance. Seeds (seed pods) can be harvested when green and pickled, or left to mature and dry for next season's planting. Leaves are also edible with a peppery flavor.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Nasturtiums are native to South America and were named by Carl Linnaeus; 'Tropaeolum' derives from the Greek word 'tropaion' (trophy), as the round leaves resemble shields and the spurred flowers resemble helmets.
- 🌱 The spurred flowers are an evolutionary adaptation for pollination by long-beaked hummingbirds and insects in their native habitat; the spur holds nectar at its tip.
- 🌱 Both flowers and seed pods are edible—green seed pods can be pickled as a 'poor man's capers' substitute, and leaves contain glucosinolates similar to those in mustard and cabbage.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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