Indian cress (Tropaeolum majus 'Mahogany Jewel') troe-pay-OH-lum MAY-jus Genus:  Tropaeolum This old-fashioned cultivar of the species has a mounding habit and grows 12-18 inches tall and wide. In summer and fall, it bears mahogany red, single to semi-double flowers. The rounded leaves and spurred, five-petaled flowers are edible. Noteworthy Characteristics:  These annuals are native to South America. Their leaves are notably round, palmately lobed, or palmate. The spurred flowers are widely funnelled, with 5 petals that are curiously fringed or lobed. They are suitable for garden edges, herb gardens, covering banks, hanging baskets, and other containers.  Care:  Provide moist, well-drained soil in full sun. T. majus flowers best when grown in lean soil. Propagation:  Sow seed indoors in early spring, or in situ in mid-spring. Problems:  Caterpillars, flea beetles, black aphids, slugs, whiteflies, viruses.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Fragrant Flowers, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Red Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Ground Covers, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden, Herb Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Annuals