Tropaeolum tricolor

Exhibiting shoals of stunning red, black and yellow flowers that last ages in flower. A climber that starts into growth very early in the autumn so early ordering is a must. They will be growing by mid November. One of the most spectacular plants that we sell, and a favourite of mine. The tubers are inconsistent, some round, others long and twisted and vary widely in their colour and skin finish.

RHS Award of Garden Merit.

This plant/cultivar has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit because it has proved to be reliable in appropriate conditions and a good performing plant. 

Planting Instructions

Plant the erratically shaped reddish tubers 3" (8cm) deep in good compost (we would suggest something like John Innes No 2) in a suitable large container to take the supporting structure and grow in cool conditions in good light. They emerge as thin tendrils in the autumn and will need support up which to climb in the early winter when they may need protection from severe or persistent frosts below about  -5°C, In the south this is however pretty uncommon. They are otherwise happy in fairly good light during the winter and could be out-of-doors, watering when dry and with occasional liquid feeding, flowering in April and into May. They climb to about 3 or 4' (about 1.2m). Once flowering has finished move the pot into more shade and feed with a liquid feed till the leaves go brown then stop watering and allow them to experience a summer rest before 'knocking out' the reddish tubers to repot in September. Once you have enough experiment with them in less protected situations in the garden. The flowers are edible - you could use them in a salad or to embellish your cocktails !

Plant Details

Flowers   Spring
Height     climbing up to 48" (120 cm)