Five-leaved Nasturtium
tropaeolum pentaphyllum
Also known as: ["Five-leaved Indian Cress","Peruvian Nasturtium"]
Overview
A climbing or trailing plant native to South America, known for its ornamental flowers and edible leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Tropaeolaceae |
| Genus: | Tropaeolum |
| Botanical Name: | Tropaeolum pentaphyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn't compact easily; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.
Monitor temperature changes; adjust care based on seasonal shifts; protect from extreme conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; switch to a low-nitrogen formula if foliage grows excessively.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth typically appears within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape plant as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and encouraging growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or wilting in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged exposure may lead to plant death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during cold spells; provide a protective layer of mulch for in-ground plants; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Tropaeolum pentaphyllum. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tropaeolum pentaphyllum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTropaeolum pentaphyllum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be irritating to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tropaeolum pentaphyllum edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and flowers are edible and have a peppery taste, similar to watercress.
Q: How should I care for Tropaeolum pentaphyllum?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Regular watering is needed, especially during dry periods.
Q: Does Tropaeolum pentaphyllum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Tropaeolaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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