Tropaeolum patagonicum
Tropaeolum patagonicumfam. Tropaeolaceae
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Pl. CEB7 — Tropaeolum patagonicum
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IOverview
Overview
Skip, scientifically known as Tropaeolum patagonicum and belonging to the Tropaeolaceae family, is a perennial plant native to the wetter regions of southern Argentina. This small, creeping plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. While primarily known for its edible roots, Skip also adds ornamental value with its distinctive, somewhat unusual foliage. Its adaptability to various soil types makes it a versatile addition to gardens where moisture is consistent.
Quick answers
What is Tropaeolum patagonicum?
Skip, scientifically known as Tropaeolum patagonicum and belonging to the Tropaeolaceae family, is a perennial plant native to the wetter regions of southern Argentina. This small, creeping plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tropaeolum patagonicum thrives in full sun and prefers moist to wet soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial plant grows up to 0.2 meters tall and is native to Argentina South. For propagation, you can grow it from roots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best results. Given its natural habitat in Argentina, this plant is hardy in temperate regions.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tropaeolum patagonicum for the first time
8steps
Skip is a straightforward perennial to grow for beginners, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of Skip seeds or small plants, a container or garden bed, good quality potting soil if planting in containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is well-draining, with a pH between 6.0-7.0. For containers, use a mix of light sandy, medium, or clay soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep and 30 cm apart in the garden. If using small plants, plant them at the same depth they were in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests like aphids and treat if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure, about 6-8 hours daily. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune plants to encourage bushy growth after flowering. Remove dead leaves and stems as needed for a tidy appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soils without amending, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Tropaeolum patagonicum is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. It is typically prepared by digging up the plant's roots and either eating them fresh or boiling them to add to dishes. Skip the detailed recipe as no specific preparation method was provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:Argentina South
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
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