Tropaeolum leptophyllum

Tropaeolum leptophyllum belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It climbs and grows from tubers, which are swollen parts below ground. Its native range runs from central Chile to western Argentina. Records place it in Mendoza and Neuquén in Argentina. In Chile, records range from Valparaíso south to La Araucanía. It grows in a temperate climate, but is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This plant lives for years and reaches about 5 feet (1.5 metres) tall. It winds its leaf stalks around nearby plants or supports. Its tubers keep it alive between growing seasons. They are large, but the sources give no size. It can grow in garden beds with support to climb. The evidence gives no width for a full-grown plant. It gives no detailed account of the leaves.

The plant flowers from July to September. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects move pollen between flowers. The species accounts give no flower colour or fruit details. Its summer blooms and climbing growth add interest to beds. Cabbage white caterpillars can harm the leaves, at times a great deal. The accounts name no other pests or diseases.

Choose a sunny site; this plant cannot grow in shade. It needs moist soil that drains well. It suits sandy soil or loam, even with few nutrients. Use lime-free soil with a mildly acid to neutral pH. Suggested mixes use loam, peat, sand, or leaf mould. The dormant, or resting, plant withstands about 5°F (−15°C). This cold limit does not apply while it grows. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10.

Sow seed under glass in early spring. Move young plants to their own pots once large enough. Keep them under glass through their first winter. Plant out once frost risk passes, in late spring or early summer. You can also split tubers in spring or autumn. In spring, you can take cuttings from the stem base. Let these root in light shade. Then plant them out in early summer. In cold regions, lift tubers once the top growth dies. Keep them cool and free of frost until spring.

You can eat the cooked roots. But accounts class them as food for times of shortage. They have less appeal than foods with a better taste. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards. This does not prove safety for pets or every use. The same source lists no uses as medicine or other uses.