Overview

Tropaeolum speciosum is a climbing perennial in the genus Tropaeolum, part of the Tropaeolaceae family. Tropaeolum speciosum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include climbing on trellises, walls and fences. It is native to Chile.

About

Tropaeolum speciosum is a climbing perennial that flowers in the UK from June to September. Native to Chile and placed in the Tropaeolaceae, it is typically used to clothe trellises, walls and fences. It favours full sun or partial shade on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with fertile, well-drained soil of neutral to slightly acidic reaction and a moist but well-drained root run. Skin allergen: wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Tropaeolum speciosum

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 speciosum, commonly called flame nasturtium, is a climbing perennial from Chile in the Tropaeolaceae, valued for its summer display when in flower from June to September in the UK. It is most often grown to climb trellises, walls or fences where its flowering season can be easily seen. Sit plants in full sun or partial shade on a south-facing aspect and protect them from strong winds. Aim for fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH and a consistently moist but not waterlogged root run; improve heavy soils with organic matter to increase fertility and drainage. The plant is classed H5 (hardy), so while it withstands typical UK winters it benefits from a sheltered position that reduces cold, drying exposure. Give a firm support for stems to climb into light and open growth to encourage flowering along the structure. Take care when handling: Tropaeolum speciosum is a skin allergen, so wear gloves and eye protection when planting, training or pruning, and avoid direct contact with sap to prevent reactions.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Tropaeolum

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained, fertile

Soil pH

neutral to slightly acidic

Soil moisture

moist but well-drained

Aspect

south-facing

Exposure

sheltered from strong winds

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Tropaeolum speciosum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

climbing perennial

Suggested uses

climbing on trellises, walls, fences

Native to

Chile

Toxicity

Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Tropaeolum speciosum

Cultivation

plant in spring in well-drained soil; provide support for climbing; protect from harsh winter winds

Pruning

light pruning after flowering to maintain shape

Propagation

seed, cuttings

Frequently asked questions