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Description
Tropaeolum Speciosum, commonly known as Flame Nasturtium, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It is native to Chile and Argentina and is widely cultivated for its showy flowers. The plant grows up to 2 meters in height and has a sprawling habit. The leaves are circular or shield-shaped and are deeply divided into five lobes. The flowers are bright scarlet in color and resemble flames, hence the name Flame Nasturtium. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Tropaeolales |
| Family | Tropaeolaceae |
| Genus | Tropaeolum |
Appearance
Tropaeolum Speciosum is a sprawling plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are circular or shield-shaped and are deeply divided into five lobes. The flowers are bright scarlet in color and resemble flames. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant has a sprawling habit and can be used as a ground cover or as a climbing plant.
Care Guide
Tropaeolum Speciosum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Tropaeolum Speciosum is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tropaeolum Speciosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that may affect this plant:- Aphids: These small insects can be removed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.- Whiteflies: These tiny insects can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or by releasing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and by avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Tropaeolum Speciosum is native to Chile and Argentina and is found in the Andes mountains. The plant grows in rocky areas and on slopes at elevations of up to 3000 meters. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tropaeolum Speciosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the sprawling habit of the plant.
Q: How often should Tropaeolum Speciosum be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Tropaeolum Speciosum toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants.
Q: How can I propagate Tropaeolum Speciosum?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or by dividing the plant in the fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Tropaeolum Speciosum:- Tropaeolum majus (Nasturtium)- Tropaeolum peregrinum (Canary Creeper)- Tropaeolum tuberosum (Mashua)
References
– “Tropaeolum Speciosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b856- “Tropaeolum Speciosum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/71507/Tropaeolum-speciosum/Details
