Tropaeolum Peregrinum
Tropaeolum peregrinum
Tropaeolum peregrinum is a fast-climbing annual from Peru and Ecuador, prized for its extraordinary fringed, canary-yellow blooms that flutter like tiny birds in the breeze. It symbolizes joy, freedom, and the delight of unexpected beauty, and is one of the most charming and distinctive annual climbers for cottage and informal gardens.
Tropaeolaceae (Nasturtium family)
Summer through autumn frost (July to October); blooms continuously once established
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: sesbanias and mexican hat flowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Tropaeolum peregrinum shares the genus name derived from the Greek tropaion, meaning a trophy of victory, coined by Linnaeus because the round leaves and helmet-shaped flowers of Tropaeolum majus reminded him of a Roman martial trophy. The species name peregrinum means wandering or exotic, reflecting the plant's origins far from Europe and its traveling nature as a climber. The evocative common name canary creeper arose from the vivid canary yellow of the fringed blooms and the impression the ruffled upper petals give of a small yellow bird taking flight, an association that has charmed gardeners since the plant was introduced to European gardens in the 17th century. Its extraordinary flower form, so different from any other common garden climber, has made it a symbol of creative surprise and the unexpected delight that a well-chosen garden plant can bring to a space.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; the plant prefers having its roots in shade and its growing tips in the sun, similar to clematis; tolerates more shade than most nasturtiums
Water
Moderate; prefers consistent moisture especially during establishment; tolerates brief dry spells but performs best with regular watering in warm summers
Soil
Moist but well-drained, Moderately fertile, Loamy or sandy, Neutral to slightly acid (pH 6.0-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds indoors in individual pots 4-6 weeks before the last frost, or direct-sow outdoors after frost risk passes; seeds are large and easy to handle
Provide a support structure at planting time; the plant climbs by twining leaf stalks and needs something to grip from the outset
Plant with the root zone in shade and the main stems growing upward toward the light for best growth and flowering, mimicking its natural habitat on forest edges
Avoid overly rich or nitrogen-heavy soil, which promotes excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers
Note that the plant can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals; wear gloves when handling and wash hands after contact
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Annual climber for trellises, pergolas, arches, and fences
- Scrambling through established shrubs and into hedgerows
- Cottage and informal garden vertical accents
- Container planting with a tall obelisk or support
- Naturalistic garden plantings where it can self-support through shrubs
Traditional Uses
- No significant established medicinal uses for Tropaeolum peregrinum; it is grown primarily for ornament
- Like other Tropaeolum species, the leaves and flowers are edible with a peppery nasturtium flavor, though this species is not commonly used culinarily
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tropaeolum Peregrinum
Why is Tropaeolum peregrinum called the canary creeper?
The name comes from the vivid canary yellow color of the blooms and the impression the deeply fringed upper petals create of a small yellow bird in mid-flight. When multiple flowers are open together on the slender stems, the effect of tiny birds fluttering in the breeze is quite striking, making the name both descriptive and poetic.
How do I grow Tropaeolum peregrinum from seed?
Sow seeds individually in small pots indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost, or direct-sow outdoors after frost risk has passed. The large seeds are easy to handle. Provide a support structure from the start as the plant climbs by twining leaf stalks. Plant in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in a position where the roots are shaded but the stems can grow toward the light.
Is Tropaeolum peregrinum the same as nasturtium?
Tropaeolum peregrinum is in the same genus as the common garden nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) and belongs to the same family. However, it is a very different plant in habit and appearance: a vigorous climbing or scrambling plant reaching 10-13 feet, with delicate, finely divided leaves and uniquely fringed yellow flowers that bear little resemblance to the broad, spurred blooms of the common nasturtium.
Can canary creeper grow in shade?
Tropaeolum peregrinum is more shade-tolerant than most annual climbers. It naturally grows at forest edges where it scrambles upward toward the light with its roots in cool, shaded soil. It performs well in positions with partial shade, and even in light dappled shade, though it flowers most freely in a brighter position. This makes it a good choice for clothing shaded walls or fences where few other flowering climbers thrive.
Is Tropaeolum peregrinum a perennial?
Tropaeolum peregrinum is technically a perennial in its native Peru and Ecuador, but it is frost-tender and is grown as an annual in all but the mildest frost-free temperate climates (roughly USDA Zone 9 and above). In cooler climates it is treated as a half-hardy annual, sown fresh each year from seed.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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