Tropaeolum tricolor, the three-coloured Indian cress or Chilean nasturtium, is a species of perennial plant in the family Tropaeolaceae. It is endemic to Chile, where it is called soldadito rojo and relicario.
Soldaditos has good resistance to diseases and is generally not susceptible to them. However, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its surroundings. These problems are generally not serious. In terms of care, this plant requires a moderate level of maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to maintain an attractive appearance and healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Soldaditos is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive experience in plant care. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Tropaeolum Tricolor.
Light
Soldaditos es una planta herbácea perenne que prefiere lugares soleados y proviene de hábitats abiertos, a menudo prosperando en praderas y pastizales. Sus preferencias de luz son pleno sol, aunque también soporta condiciones de sol parcial.
Water
Soldaditos thrive in humid environments and need to be watered weekly to maintain their water balance. As an evergreen plant, they retain moisture in their leaves, ensuring a vibrant green appearance throughout the year, even during dormancy.
Temperature
Soldaditos muestra gran capacidad de adaptación a distintos climas, tanto a veranos muy calurosos como a inviernos fríos. No obstante, tiene un rango de temperatura óptimo para su crecimiento. Cuando las temperaturas se elevan en exceso, la planta es vulnerable al estrés por calor y humedad, lo que puede provocarle la muerte. En zonas donde las temperaturas se acercan al límite inferior de su tolerancia al frío, es necesario tomar medidas de aislamiento para protegerla.
Fertilizer
For Soldaditos, the primary time to apply fertilizer is early spring, while flowers are forming. The appropriate fertilizer promotes better blooms and helps Soldaditos produce attractive flowers. Fertilizing in early spring ensures excellent flowering during the season and supplies energy for dormant growth phases.
Pruning
Prune soldaditos in early spring to remove dead stems, encourage new growth, and manage their spread. Ensure there is good air circulation to reduce the risk of disease and increase foliage density. Proper pruning during the growing season helps optimize the plant's health and appearance. For detailed care instructions, consult horticultural resources.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Vine, Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Tropaeolum
- Family
- Tropaeolaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m
- Mature Spread
- 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Red, Purple
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
Other names.
Reader questions.
What are the sunlight requirements for growing Soldaditos (Tropaeolum tricolor)?
Soldaditos, known botanically as Tropaeolum tricolor, thrive in areas that receive varying amounts of sunlight. They require full sun, which is defined as more than 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, to flourish. However, they can also tolerate partial sun, meaning they can grow in conditions that provide approximately 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. When cultivating Soldaditos in your garden, it’s important to observe how sunlight moves throughout your space. Selecting the right spots will ensure your plants receive an ideal balance of light and shade, contributing to their overall happiness and growth.
What is the botanical name of Soldaditos?
The botanical name of Soldaditos is Tropaeolum tricolor.
