Tropaeolum speciosum Seeds

Tropaeolum speciosum, also known as the Flame Flower, is a perennial climbing plant that has magnificent and unique red flowering from July to the first frost.

Its flowers, carried on slender branches, form beautiful vermilion red garlands. They are tubular, cut and equipped with a very elegant spur, especially when the flower is closed. At the end of flowering, it is the turn of the round and dark blue fruits to appear. They are pleasantly highlighted by the red and persistent calyx of the flower. On the fancy side, the leaves are just as impressive as the flowers: a beautiful green, semi-evergreen in mild winters, they are divided into 6 rounded and unequal lobes.

Native to Chile, Tropaeolum speciosum is a hardy perennial with fleshy rhizomes in mild temperate climates. In the garden, it will take over your trellises by clinging with the petioles of its leaves, much like Clematis do. It is a climber capable of spreading up to 3 metres (10 feet), perfect for dressing up a wall or breaking up the dark mass of a conifer hedge.

The growth of Tropaeolum speciosum is particularly rapid. Planted in good conditions, it will gradually spread without becoming invasive. You can associate it with another unique climber, the Canary Creeper, to create a mix of exotic charm.

You can plant it in well-drained (especially in winter), moist and humus-rich soil. It is not demanding in terms of exposure, but avoid intense sunlight that would damage its leaves. Hardy up to -10°C (14°F), we strongly recommend mulching its base with a thick layer of dead leaves in regions with harsh winters.