Tropaeolum leonis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Tropaeolum leonis faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and livestock grazing in its native Andean range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, while climate change threatens to shift suitable growing conditions to higher elevations. Collection for horticultural trade has also contributed to population declines in accessible areas.
Habitat
This climbing nasturtium inhabits montane cloud forests and humid valleys of the Andes, typically growing in partially shaded areas with rich, well-drained soils at elevations between 2,000-3,500 meters. The species favors forest edges and clearings where it can climb through shrubs and small trees.