Five-leaved nasturtium
Tropaeolum pentaphyllum
Family: Tropaeolaceae
What it is like
A climber with tuberous roots. It keeps growing from year to year. It can grow 6 m high and spread 6 m wide. The leaves are small and have 5 lobes. The leaf stalks are purple. The flowers are red and tube shaped. They occur in groups. They hang down. The fruit has 3 lobes and is a black juicy berry. It is edible.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It will grow in most soils and positions. It is resistant to drought and frost. In Argentina it grows below 700 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 8-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, South America (country/location of origin), Tasmania, Uruguay
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Leaves, fruit, spice, tuber, flowers
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seed.
Its other names
Local names
Batata-crem, Capuchinha, Crem, Crem-de-cipo, Lady's legs, Pititos