Mashua

An interesting species of nasturtium, Mashua grows as a beautiful twining vine that can reach 8-12 feet tall with a big enough support and displays fiery orange tubular flowers in late summer into fall that hummingbirds flock too. Following the stunning floral and foliage display the plant will die back for the winter in northern climates and you can harvest its uniquely shaped tubers that look like gems from the earth with their various colors and striations. Flavor is similar to a nasturtium flower with its pleasant peppery flavors and earthy notes. A fun and interesting Incan crop that has been grown in the Andes for hundreds of years.

Latin Name: Tropaeolum tuberosum
Site and Soil: Half day to full sun, well draining soil
Hardiness: 30° F. at least
Size at Maturity: 8-12 ft
Flower Color: Bright orange and red
Foliage Color: Green
Bloom Time: Late summer into fall
Pests & Diseases: None that we’ve seen
USDA Zone: 9a to be perennial year round, or harvest tubers and re-plant in spring