How to Grow Spitfire Nasturtium
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Spitfire Nasturtium
Tropaeolum majus 'Spitfire'
flowerSpitfire is a vibrant nasturtium cultivar known for its intense red-orange flowers and semi-trailing growth habit. This tender annual produces round, shield-shaped leaves and creates a striking display in gardens, containers, and hanging baskets. The plant is both ornamental and edible, with flowers and seeds valued in culinary applications.
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Example Spitfire Nasturtium timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spitfire 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 Spitfire Nasturtium blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Spitfire Nasturtium dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Grown as an annual in zones 2-11; thrives in temperate conditions
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Seedling
2-3 weeksCotyledons emerge, followed by the first true leaves. Plants are compact and delicate
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding
Vegetative
3-4 weeksRapid leaf growth with round, shield-shaped foliage. Plant develops trailing or semi-upright stems depending on variety
Reduce watering slightly to encourage flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. Pinch stems lightly if bushier growth is desired
Flowering
8-12 weeksAbundant bright red-orange flowers appear at leaf axils. Flowers are trumpet-shaped with 5 petals and prominent stamens
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Water moderately; do not overwater. Keep out of intense afternoon heat in hot climates
Seed Development
4-6 weeksAfter pollination, distinctive round seed pods (capers) develop and mature from green to brown
Allow some flowers to mature into seeds for self-seeding or seed collection. Remove excess seed pods if continuous flowering is desired
Decline
Until first frostPlant growth slows as temperatures drop in fall; flowering diminishes. Frost kills the tender annual
Collect mature seeds for next season. Harvest immature seed pods for culinary use before frost
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps
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Yellow sticky traps; neem oil spray; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use miticide or neem oil in severe infestations
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Hand-pick beetles; use row covers; spray with insecticidal soap if severe
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Hand-pick; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for heavy infestations
Uses
Edible Flowers and Capers
CulinarySpitfire flowers add vibrant color and a peppery flavor to salads, garnishes, and plated dishes. Immature seed pods can be pickled as a caper substitute with a similar peppery taste and crunch. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalNasturtium flowers and leaves contain glucosinolates and have been traditionally used to support respiratory health and as a natural antimicrobial. Some herbalists use nasturtium for its mild diuretic properties. [source]
Natural Pest Deterrent
HouseholdSpitfire nasturtiums attract aphids and other pests away from vegetables in companion planting, acting as a sacrificial crop. This reduces pest pressure on nearby food crops. [source]
Pollinator Attractor
WildlifeThe bright red-orange flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, making Spitfire an excellent choice for supporting beneficial insects in the garden. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
CraftSpitfire nasturtium flowers last 5-7 days in a vase and add striking color and an unusual texture to fresh floral arrangements and bouquets. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest flowers in early morning when they open fully. Pick flowers regularly to promote more blooms. For culinary seeds (capers), collect immature green seed pods when tender and pickle immediately, or allow pods to mature and dry for storage. Flowers are best harvested within hours of use for maximum freshness and color
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'nasturtium' comes from the Latin 'nasus tortus' meaning 'twisted nose,' referring to the peppery aroma and the shape of the seed pods
- 🌱 Spitfire nasturtiums have natural resistance to aphids in some varieties, making them excellent trap crops that protect nearby vegetables
- 🌱 All parts of the nasturtium plant—flowers, leaves, seeds, and seed pods—are edible and contain the same peppery compounds found in wasabi and horseradish
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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