Tropaeolum tuberosum

Common Name:
Mashua
Plant Type:
Tuberous perennial
Family:
Tropaeolaceae (The Nasturtium Family)
Geographic Origin:
South America
California Native?:
No

Plant Size:
10 feet+ high
Landscape/Garden Uses:
walls and fences
Flowering Season:
Summer and fall

Flower Color:
Orange
Exposure:
Sun or light shade
Soils:
Most soils

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 15 degrees F. or less

The tuberous roots of this plant are a traditional food crop in the Andean highlands of South America. This vine is also quite ornamental with attractive rounded leaves and bright orange flowers in late summer and fall. It is not rampant like the more common annual nasturtium. Leaves and stems die down in winter; dig edible tubers and store frost free over winter.