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 Tropaeolum tricolorum, is a perennial vine native to Peru. Thriving in full sun, this plant prefers soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay) and grows up to 0.3 meters tall. Its ornamental value is highlighted by its vibrant flowers, which come in a variety of colors including white, red, and yellow. The edible flowers can be enjoyed raw or used in cooked dishes, adding a mild flavor to salads and making a colorful garnish. Tropaeolum tricolorum is adaptable to hardiness zones 7-10, making it a suitable addition to gardens in these regions. While primarily ornamental, its edible flowers make it a valuable addition to both gardens and culinary creations.
Quick answers
What is Tropaeolum tricolorum?
Tropaeolum tricolorum, a member of the Tropaeolaceae family and commonly known as Tropaeolum tricolorum, is a perennial vine native to Peru. Thriving in full sun, this plant prefers soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay) and grows up to 0.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tropaeolum tricolorum thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions, typically zones 7-10. As a perennial vine or forb/herb, it grows to a height of 0.3 meters and requires regular watering to maintain its health. Propagate by seed or cuttings. The edible parts include the flowers, making this plant a delightful addition to both culinary and ornamental gardens.
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 · 77 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 77 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 1 native· 77 introduced
Europe10 regions
introduced (10)AlbaniaBelgiumBulgariaFranceGreecePortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia5 regions
introduced (5)BangladeshChinaIndiaSouth KoreaVietnam
Americas15 regions
native (1)Peru
introduced (14)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican RepublicEcuadorEl SalvadorGuatemalaHaitiHondurasJamaicaPuerto RicoUnited StatesUruguay
Africa10 regions
introduced (10)AlgeriaAngolaCabo VerdeCameroonEritreaEthiopiaMauritiusMoroccoRwandaTunisia
Broader regions
introduced:Amsterdam-St.Paul Is, Argentina Northeast, Ascension, Bermuda, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, California, Chile Central, Connecticut, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., East Himalaya, Free State, Juan Fernández Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Masachusettes, Mexico Central, Mexico Northwest, New Hampshire, New York, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Norfolk Is., Oregon, Pennsylvania, Réunion, St.Helena, Tasmania, Trinidad-Tobago, Tristan da Cunha, Zaïre
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
Native to
XII
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