Tropaeolum sessilifolium

Tropaeolum sessilifolium is a perennial climber from central Chile. It belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family and grows from tubers. These underground parts support its growth from year to year. Its native range has a temperate climate. In the Andes, it grows on dry, open mountain slopes. It also occurs in sandy gullies near patches of snow. Recorded sites lie around 7,220 feet [2,200 metres] above sea level.

The plant can climb to about 10 feet [3 metres]. Its climbing form suits a place in a cultivated bed. The small tubers are edible, either raw or cooked. Plants For A Future rates their food value at three out of five. It describes their flavour as good, even without cooking. The plant flowers from April to May. Each flower has both male and female organs.

Choose a sunny site, as this species cannot grow in shade. A humus-rich loam with good drainage suits it best. It prefers neutral to mildly acid soil. The source also lists sand and clay as suitable soils. Soil may be dry or moist, but drainage remains important. Its mountain habitat has brief spring rain and melting snow. A dry summer follows this short spell of moisture.

Cold tolerance is less clear than its mountain home might suggest. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. It also reports tolerance down to about 23°F [−5°C]. Yet the same account calls the plant frost tender. It suggests a cold greenhouse or conservatory in colder areas. Its snowy native sites cast doubt on that limited hardiness. Where winter cold threatens, lift tubers after frost kills the top growth. Keep them cool and frost-free, then replant in spring.

Raise plants from seed sown in a greenhouse in early spring. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Keep them under glass through their first winter. Plant them outside after the risk of frost has passed. Tubers can also be divided in spring or autumn. Basal stem cuttings offer another route in spring. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. That does not establish safety for every person or pet. It records no other uses and flags no weed potential.