Tropaeolum tricolorum
Tropaeolum tricolorumfam. Tropaeolaceae
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Pl. 7B90 — Tropaeolum tricolorum
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IOverview
Overview
Tropaeolum tricolorum, a member of the Tropaeolaceae family and commonly known as Skip, is a perennial vine native to Peru. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is notable for its edible flowers. Skip is adaptable to hardiness zones 7-10, making it suitable for gardens where these conditions are met. Its ornamental value lies in its vibrant colors and unique form, adding a striking touch to any garden setting.
Quick answers
What is Tropaeolum tricolorum?
Tropaeolum tricolorum, a member of the Tropaeolaceae family and commonly known as Skip, is a perennial vine native to Peru. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It grows up to 0.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tropaeolum tricolorum thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 7-10 and can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. This perennial vine reaches a height of about 30 cm and produces edible flowers. For best results, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tropaeolum tricolorum for the first time
8steps
Skip is a simple, low-maintenance plant for beginners to try in their garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, small pots if starting indoors, compost, and a trellis or support system.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip outdoors after the last frost in spring when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining, rich in organic matter. Use a pot at least 20 cm wide if starting indoors.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost, then transplant outdoors once danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide light shade if temperatures are very high.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure good drainage. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune vines to encourage bushiness and remove dead leaves. Harvest flowers for decorative purposes.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing support, neglecting to prune, and waiting too long to transplant seedlings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of Tropaeolum tricolorum are edible and can be consumed raw or used in cooked dishes. They add a mild flavor to salads and are sometimes used as a garnish due to their vibrant color.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 29 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 29 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 1 native· 29 introduced
Europe6 regions
introduced (6)AlbaniaBelgiumBulgariaPortugalRussiaSpain
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)BangladeshChinaIndia
Americas6 regions
native (1)Peru
introduced (5)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican Republic
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaCabo Verde
Broader regions
introduced:Argentina Northeast, Ascension, Bermuda, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Amsterdam-St.Paul Is, California, Chile Central, Connecticut, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., East Himalaya
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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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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