How to Grow Dwarf Jewels
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Dwarf Jewels
Nasturtium × hybrida 'Jewel' series
flowerDwarf Jewels are compact ornamental nasturtiums known for their vibrant, jewel-toned flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These bushy plants reach only 12-15 inches tall, making them ideal for containers, borders, and small spaces. Both flowers and foliage are edible and add a peppery flavor to salads.
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Example Dwarf Jewels timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dwarf Jewels
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 Dwarf Jewels blooms
Around May 22≈ 35 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Dwarf Jewels dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11; typically grown as annuals in cooler zones, may persist in warmer regions
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Get my Dwarf Jewels timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysSmall green cotyledons emerge with the first true leaves appearing within 7-10 days. Plants are delicate and tender.
Maintain consistently moist (not wet) soil. Provide bright indirect light. Keep temperature around 65-70°F. Thin seedlings if overcrowded.
Vegetative Growth
15-25 daysPlants develop bushy growth with multiple stems and round, shield-shaped leaves. No flowers yet.
Water regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Provide full sun to partial shade. Pinch growing tips early to encourage branching.
Bud Formation
10-15 daysSmall flower buds appear in leaf axils along stems. Plant continues to fill out and become bushier.
Maintain consistent watering schedule. Reduce nitrogen fertilization if using fertilizer to avoid excess foliage. Continue pinching for fullness if desired.
Flowering
40-60+ daysVibrant jewel-toned flowers open continuously in shades of scarlet, golden orange, or deep red. Multiple blooms present simultaneously on healthy plants.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain even moisture. Tolerate heat well. No fertilizer needed; low-nitrogen is preferred.
Decline
VariableIn late season or under stress, flowering slows and plant may become leggy or sparse. Seeds develop in round seed pods if flowers are not deadheaded.
Cut back plant if it becomes overgrown. Collect seed pods for self-seeding next year. Accept natural end of season or continue deadheading to extend bloom.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Improve air circulation.
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Hand-pick if few; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for larger infestations. Remove affected leaves.
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Increase humidity and water foliage; use miticide or neem oil if severe.
Uses
Edible Flowers and Peppery Greens
CulinaryBoth the vibrant flowers and round leaves are edible with a pleasantly peppery, slightly pungent flavor. Use fresh flowers as garnish in salads, or eat leaves in salads for a unique spicy kick reminiscent of horseradish. [source]
Traditional Respiratory Support
MedicinalNasturtium has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support respiratory health and may have antimicrobial properties. The plant contains compounds called glucosinolates believed to have beneficial effects on the respiratory system. [source]
Natural Pest Deterrent
HouseholdDwarf Jewels act as trap crops and natural pesticides in the garden, repelling harmful insects like aphids and cabbage worms from nearby vegetables. Plant near brassicas to protect them from common pests. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
CraftThe bright, jewel-toned flowers with their distinctive funnel shape make excellent additions to small floral arrangements and bouquets. Flowers last several days in water. [source]
Pollinator and Hummingbird Attractor
WildlifeThe nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making Dwarf Jewels valuable for supporting pollinator populations in gardens. [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 and leaves are edible and can be harvested at any time; they have a peppery flavor. Pinch flowers as needed for arrangements or salads. For seed collection, allow flowers to mature and develop round seed pods; harvest when pods turn brown and papery in late summer/fall.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Nasturtium seeds resemble tiny capers and can be pickled for a peppery condiment called 'caperucines' in some European cuisines.
- 🌱 The plant's name comes from the Latin 'nasus tortus' meaning 'twisted nose,' referring to the spurred flower shape.
- 🌱 Dwarf Jewels are self-seeding annuals that will voluntarily reseed the following year, creating a return garden display without replanting.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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