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Description
Tropaeolum Polyphyllum, also known as the Canary Creeper, is a species of flowering plant in the Tropaeolaceae family. It is native to South America and is commonly found in Chile, Peru, and Argentina. This plant is a perennial that grows as a vine and can reach up to 10 feet in length. Its leaves are round or heart-shaped, with a diameter of up to 4 inches. The flowers of Tropaeolum Polyphyllum are bright yellow or orange and have a unique shape resembling a funnel.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Tropaeolales |
| Family | Tropaeolaceae |
| Genus | Tropaeolum |
Appearance
Tropaeolum Polyphyllum is a beautiful and unique plant. Its leaves are green and round or heart-shaped, with a diameter of up to 4 inches. The flowers of this plant are bright yellow or orange and are about 1 inch long. They have a funnel-like shape and are very fragrant. The stems of Tropaeolum Polyphyllum are thin and can reach up to 10 feet in length. They are also very wiry and can be trained to climb walls or trellises.
Care Guide
Tropaeolum Polyphyllum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: Tropaeolum Polyphyllum prefers moist soil, but it does not like to sit in water. Water your plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained.- Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer. You can feed it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Tropaeolum Polyphyllum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant likes full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as much.- Hardiness Zones: Tropaeolum Polyphyllum can grow in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tropaeolum Polyphyllum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of your plant. You can control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These pests are very small and can cause yellowing of the leaves. You can control them with neem oil or by spraying your plant with water.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. You can prevent it by keeping your plant in a well-ventilated area and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Tropaeolum Polyphyllum is native to South America and is commonly found in Chile, Peru, and Argentina. It grows in rocky or sandy soils and can be found in forests, grasslands, and along riverbanks. This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in both hot and cold climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tropaeolum Polyphyllum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
Q: Can Tropaeolum Polyphyllum grow indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors, but it will need a lot of sunlight and a trellis or support to climb.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tropaeolum Polyphyllum?
A: You can fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Tropaeolum Polyphyllum?
A: You can propagate this plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall and rooting them in water or soil.
Related Plants
– Tropaeolum majus (Nasturtium)- Tropaeolum peregrinum (Canary Creeper)- Tropaeolum tuberosum (Mashua)
References
– “Tropaeolum Polyphyllum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=290451.- “Tropaeolum Polyphyllum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14296/Tropaeolum-polyphyllum/Details.
