Overview
Tropaeolum polyphyllum is a perennial in the genus Tropaeolum, part of the Tropaeolaceae family. Tropaeolum polyphyllum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or rocky soils. It is native to C Chile to NW Argentina.
About the genus
Tropaeolum, commonly known as nasturtium, is a genus of roughly 80 species of annual and perennial herbaceous flowering plants. It was named by Carl Linnaeus in his book Species Plantarum and is the only genus in the family Tropaeolaceae. The nasturtiums received their common name because they produce an oil similar to that of watercress.
Wikipedia contributors, "Tropaeolum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Tropaeolum
In the garden
Tropaeolum polyphyllum originates from the central Andes, occurring naturally from central Chile to north-west Argentina where it grows on stony ground and scree at altitude. Plants send up long trailing shoots in the growing season from a dormant tuber, producing silvery lobed foliage and conspicuous golden yellow flowers between June and September; after flowering the shoots collapse and the tuber remains dormant through winter. Give it a sunny or lightly shaded aspect in a free-draining, sandy or rocky growing medium and avoid winter waterlogging. It suits dry to moderately moist conditions rather than consistently damp soils. An exposed position that mimics alpine scree will help maintain the plant’s compact, low hummock form; take care when handling, as it is a skin allergen so gloves and eye protection are recommended. In the UK it is best grown in rock gardens, alpine troughs, gravel beds or on a sunny, well-drained bank where its late-spring to summer flowers can be appreciated. Because the above-ground shoots die back after flowering, mark the planting spot or grow alongside clearly visible companions so you do not disturb the tuber during winter dormancy.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Tropaeolum
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or rocky
- Soil moisture
- dry to moderate
- Exposure
- exposed, mountainous
Plant details
Tropaeolum polyphyllum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Native to
- C Chile to NW Argentina
- Toxicity
- Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Tropaeolum polyphyllum
- Propagation
- seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Tropaeolum polyphyllum?
Tropaeolum polyphyllum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and mountainous positions.
What soil does Tropaeolum polyphyllum need?
Tropaeolum polyphyllum grows best in well-drained and sandy or rocky soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to moderate.
How do I propagate Tropaeolum polyphyllum?
Seed.
Is Tropaeolum polyphyllum toxic?
Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
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