Passiflora (Passion Flower)
Tropical-looking, short-lived, waxy flowers grow on these rapid-growing, evergreen or deciduous vines grown outdoors only in the southernmost US. Parts of the short-lived flowers are said to represent elements in the biblical story of Jesus’ Passion. Varieties include the popular Blue Passionflower (P. Caerulea), which is nearly immune to pests and is less affected by frost. P. Alatocaerulea, which has been used in perfume, has fragrant, white flowers, tinted pink and lavender with deep blue or purple crowns. Vines reach 20- to 30-ft.-tall. Vigorous growth can become a tangle of new and old vines, so thin each spring after second year and support vines on trellises or fences. Outdoors in mild climates, plant with trellis or other support in ground or containers. Use on banks for erosion control. Likes full sun to partial shade. A greenhouse plant where winters are cold. Start by seed or cuttings. Water during summer. Watch for caterpillars.
One of the few passion vines that is hardy beyond the South and Pacific West. It has showy, complex flowers that are blue, white and orange, and deep green, lobed, leaves that are evergreen except in northern locations.
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