This fiery red climber will make your garden look hot every summer. Tropaeolum speciosum grows perfectly against any fence, wall or hedge. Although it is classed as a Nasturtium it is only occasionally seen in a few gardens. The herbaceous climbing perennial will die down each year but will bounce back into life in spring followed by a burst of vibrant red flowers in summer. It originates from South America and typically looks best growing up an evergreen hedge such as yew. At full height it will reach 3 metres. Experiment and try growing it through a Rhododendron or Holly. The key cultivation point to remember is that is a woodland plant. This means it likes shade and moist humus rich soil. In some particular situations it can handle some sun but for best bloom results it prefers cool conditions, After it has flowered bright purple fruits follow which maintains the interest through the season. It is fully hardy in the UK and was awarded a Garden Award of Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society in 1993. Propagation can be carried out by stratifying fresh seed or by division of the rhizome in early spring.
Get Planting! 