Whirlybird Nasturtium: A Unique Garden Treasure

Whirlybird nasturtiums are a delightful variety that brings playful charm and vibrant color to any garden space. Named for their distinctive propeller-like seed pods that spin as they fall, these flowers are as entertaining to watch as they are beautiful to admire.

Distinctive Flower Characteristics

The Whirlybird nasturtium produces semi-double flowers with ruffled, layered petals that create a full, pompom-like appearance. Unlike traditional single-petaled nasturtiums, the Whirlybird variety offers a more ornate bloom that catches the eye and adds texture to garden beds and arrangements.

These flowers come in a stunning range of warm colors including vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and bi-color combinations. The blooms sit above attractive shield-shaped foliage, creating a striking contrast that makes the flowers pop against the green leaves.

Growing and Care Tips

Whirlybird nasturtiums are wonderfully easy to grow, making them perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. They prefer full sun to partial shade and thrive in well-draining soil. These plants are quite forgiving and actually perform better in moderately fertile soil—overly rich soil can result in excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.

Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date, planting them about one inch deep. Water regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Nasturtiums are relatively drought-tolerant once established, though consistent moisture encourages more prolific blooming.

Garden Uses and Companion Planting

Whirlybird nasturtiums work beautifully in cottage gardens, containers, and mixed borders. Their compact, bushy growth habit makes them ideal for edging beds or filling in gaps between other plants. They're also excellent choices for hanging baskets and window boxes, where their trailing stems can cascade gracefully.

These flowers attract beneficial insects and can even serve as a trap crop for aphids, protecting other plants in your garden. The blooms are edible with a peppery flavor, making them a charming addition to salads and garnishes for the adventurous gardener.

In Summary

This variety produces jewel-toned flowers, dark green foliage, maximum color! These flowers stand straight and will come in shades of red, orange, cream and gold. 

• Nasturtium flowers are one of the most popular edible flowers grown in home gardens. The petals have a slight peppery taste, and the seeds and leaves are also edible! You can even use the seeds as an alternative to capers.

• Not only are the flowers pretty, Nasturtiums are great companion plants! They are also known to deter aphids, whiteflies, cucumber beetles & more. Learn more >

• Nasturtiums should be planted in the spring for a "summer show". Plant in full sun, and in sandy, well drained soil. Generally, the poorer the soil quality, the more flowers the plant will produce! Deadhead your plants regularly to encourage new blooms, all season long. These flowers will self-seed resulting in more flowers for years to come!

• These are PERFECT for beginner gardeners! These annuals are very easy to grow from seed and can be grown just about anywhere, even places that are susceptible to drought.

• The bright flower petals will liven up any garden, with very little effort! They are also GREAT for planting in hanging baskets or containers.