Tropaeolum tuberosum

Tropaeolum tuberosum, also known as Mashua, is a species of flowering plant in the family Tropaeolaceae, native to the Andes from Venezuela to Argentina. It is a perennial climbing plant, growing to a height of 2-4 meters. The plant is known for its brightly colored, trumpet-shaped flowers and its tuberous roots, which are used as a root vegetable in Andean cuisine.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Tropaeolum tuberosum plant has a climbing habit, using its leaf stalks to coil around other plants for support. The leaves are peltate, with a central petiole, and are typically divided into five to seven lobes. The flowers are bright orange, red, or yellow, and are followed by three-segmented fruits. The tubers are elongated and can be up to 20 cm long, with a skin that is either yellow, orange, or purple.

Cultivation and uses[edit | edit source]

Tropaeolum tuberosum is cultivated for its tubers, which are used as a root vegetable in the Andes region. The tubers are typically harvested in the late autumn or early winter, after the aerial parts of the plant have died back. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and have a slightly sweet, peppery flavor. The tubers are also used in traditional medicine in the Andes, where they are believed to have diuretic and antiseptic properties.

In addition to its use as a food crop, Tropaeolum tuberosum is also grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers. It is hardy to USDA zone 8 and can be grown in cooler climates if the tubers are lifted and stored over winter.

Propagation[edit | edit source]

Tropaeolum tuberosum can be propagated by seed or by division of the tubers. Seeds should be sown in a warm, well-drained soil in the spring. Tubers can be divided in the autumn after the plant has died back, and stored in a cool, dry place over winter.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The species was first described by the French botanist Aimé Bonpland in 1812. The genus name Tropaeolum comes from the Greek tropaion, meaning "trophy", in reference to the plant's climbing habit and showy flowers. The species name tuberosum refers to the plant's tuberous roots.