Tropaeolum speciosum
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FLAME NASTURTIUM, SCOTTISH FLAME FLOWER
Family: Tropaeolaceae
Pronounced: tro-PIE-o-lum spee-see-OH-sum
GROWING GUIDE
Country of Origin:
Chile.
Plant Group:
Vines.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: Not listed.
USDA zones: 8-10.
Mature size:
Height: 10 feet (3 m).
Flowering period:
Summer to autumn.
Flowering attributes:
Bright red 3/4-inch flowers with claw-like petals; the lower 3 are longer than the others.
Leaf attributes:
Blue-green palmate leaves.
Growth habit:
Climber.
Light:
Tops in full sun; lower stems and roots in shade.
Soil:
Fertile, moist, well-drained soil; neutral to acidic soils.
Feeding:
Feed once a month with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Divide tubers in spring. | Cuttings in late summer.
Rainy Side Notes
The vine, T. speciosum is spectacular when in full bloom. It grows in our mild, cool climate of the Pacific Northwest provided the soil is well-drained and it receives plenty of moisture during our long summer drought. this can be difficult to find a source for the tubers. You can lift them and store like dahlia tubers.
The roots need to be in shade, plant where the vine can climb up into the sun. It grows well in seaside gardens.
This vine is a good nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
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