Dwarf Nasturtium
Tropaeolum minusfam. Tropaeolaceae
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Pl. D32E — Tropaeolum minus
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IOverview
Overview
Dwarf Nasturtium (Tropaeolum minus) is a compact, trailing perennial native to the Andean regions of Ecuador and Peru. This member of the Tropaeolaceae family thrives in full sun and moist, light soil. Known for its edible flowers, leaves, seeds, and seedpods, it adds a peppery flavor to dishes. One distinctive feature is its small, vibrant blooms that range from bright orange to yellow, often with red or purple markings. Another notable characteristic is its ability to grow up to 0.3 meters in height, making it ideal for hanging baskets or as a ground cover.
Quick answers
What is Dwarf Nasturtium?
Dwarf Nasturtium (Tropaeolum minus) is a compact, trailing perennial native to the Andean regions of Ecuador and Peru. This member of the Tropaeolaceae family thrives in full sun and moist, light soil. Known for its edible flowers, leaves, seeds, and seedpods, it adds a peppery flavor to dishes.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Dwarf Nasturtium thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture. It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 0.3 meters tall as a perennial. To propagate, you can use seeds or division. The edible parts include the flowers, leaves, seed, and seedpod. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Dwarf Nasturtium for the first time
7steps
Start with Dwarf Nasturtium for a low-maintenance, rewarding beginner garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, small pots or direct planting area, gardening gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, about 30 cm apart in rows. Transplant seedlings when they are 5-7 cm tall.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure, at least 6 hours per day. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove dead leaves. Harvest flowers and leaves as needed.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: Condiment
Other uses:Pest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Americas2 regions
native (2)EcuadorPeru
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
6 related
See also
6 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Tropaeolaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Tropaeolaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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