Tropaeolum speciosum: How to Grow the Flame Flower (Hardy Nasturtium)

Tropaeolum speciosum, commonly known as the flame flower or hardy nasturtium, is a striking perennial climber valued for its intense scarlet-red flowers and delicate blue-green foliage. Unlike common annual nasturtiums, this species is fully hardy in the UK and returns year after year, making it a prized plant for cooler gardens.

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Although it can be slow to establish, Tropaeolum speciosum is one of the most dramatic climbers when grown in the right conditions.

What Is Tropaeolum speciosum?

Tropaeolum speciosum is a hardy perennial climber native to Chile and South America. It belongs to the same genus as garden nasturtiums but behaves very differently.

Key features include:

Fine, twining stems
Small, lobed blue-green leaves
Brilliant flame-red flowers with yellow centres
Underground tuberous roots

Rather than clinging to walls, it scrambles and weaves through nearby plants and supports.

Is Tropaeolum speciosum Hardy in the UK?

Yes. Tropaeolum speciosum is fully hardy in most parts of the UK once established. It dies back in winter and reappears in late spring.

It performs best in:

Cool summers
Moist but well-drained soil
Sheltered positions

Hot, dry conditions are its main weakness.

How Tall Does Tropaeolum speciosum Grow?

When established, it can reach:

2–4 metres in height

It is ideal for growing through:

Shrubs and hedges
Trellis and fences
Archways in cool or woodland-style gardens

Its fine growth gives a light, airy effect rather than dense coverage.

When Does Tropaeolum speciosum Flower?

Flowering usually occurs:

From July to September

The vivid red flowers stand out strongly against surrounding greenery, especially in partial shade.

Where to Grow Tropaeolum speciosum

This plant has specific growing requirements.

It thrives in:

Partial shade or dappled light
Moist, humus-rich soil
Sheltered, cool locations

Avoid hot, dry, south-facing walls or sandy soils that dry out quickly.

How to Plant Tropaeolum speciosum

Tropaeolum speciosum is usually planted as:

Tubers
Container-grown plants

Plant tubers:

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In spring
Around 5–7cm deep
In a position where roots can remain undisturbed

It dislikes being moved once established.

Watering and Feeding

Consistent moisture is essential.

Keep soil evenly moist
Mulch to retain moisture
Avoid waterlogging

Do not overfeed. Too much fertiliser produces leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Does Tropaeolum speciosum Need Support?

Yes. While it twines naturally, it needs something to grow through.

Suitable supports include:

Shrubs and hedges
Light trellis
Wires or mesh

It looks best when allowed to scramble naturally rather than being tightly trained.

Is Tropaeolum speciosum Edible?

Unlike common garden nasturtiums, Tropaeolum speciosum is grown as an ornamental plant, not as an edible one. It is best admired for its flowers rather than used in the kitchen.

Does Tropaeolum speciosum Spread?

Yes. Once settled, it can spread slowly by underground tubers.

New shoots may appear nearby
It can naturalise in suitable conditions

It is slow to establish but long-lived once happy.

Common Problems

Poor Growth

Soil too dry
Too much sun or heat

Lots of Leaves, Few Flowers

Excess feeding
Too much shade

Failure to Return

Disturbance of tubers
Drought stress

Patience is important, as it may take a year or two to establish properly.

Is Tropaeolum speciosum Suitable for Beginners?

It is better suited to intermediate gardeners.

Not difficult, but specific in its needs
Thrives when conditions are right
Less forgiving than annual nasturtiums

Gardeners with cool, moist conditions will have the greatest success.

Using Tropaeolum speciosum in Garden Design

This plant works beautifully in:

Woodland gardens
Cottage gardens
Naturalistic planting schemes
Cool, shaded borders

Its fiery red flowers provide dramatic contrast against green foliage and pale flowers.

Final Thoughts on Tropaeolum speciosum

Tropaeolum speciosum is one of the most spectacular hardy climbers for UK gardens. While it requires patience and the right conditions, the reward is a stunning display of flame-red flowers that return year after year. For gardeners with cool, moist soil and partial shade, it is a truly exceptional plant.

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