About
This strong-growing, annual climber which will scramble over the ground or up a support. Circular, wavy-edged leaves are supported, parasol-like, by a central stalk. The long-spurred flowers, in shades of red, yellow and orange, appear in summer and autumn. The whole plant has a sharp aroma.
About the genus
Tropaeolum can be annuals or perennials, bushy, trailing or climbing by twining stems, with simple or palmately lobed leaves and showy funnel-shaped flowers with five long-clawed petals and often a spur
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Climber Wall Shrub
HabitTrailing
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower, Foliage, Fruit
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationBest grown in poor, well-drained soil in full sun, if the soil is too rich foliage will be produced at the expense of flowers
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite and whitefly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to virus diseases