Common Names: Bluecrown Passionflower, Blue Passionflower, Common Passionflower, Flower of the Five Wounds, Passion flower, Southern Beauty, Wild Apricot.
Phonetic Spelling: pas-si-FLOR-ah se-ROO-lee-ah
Introduction
The Bluecrown Passionflower, scientifically known as Passiflora caerulea, is a perennial vining plant that originates from South America. This plant, recognized as the national flower of Paraguay, can grow between 10 to 40 feet tall. Belonging to the Passifloraceae family, it boasts striking blue and white flowers, accompanied by orange fruits. The genus name, Passiflora, has religious significance, as it symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ—a connection made by Roman Catholic priests in the 15th and 16th centuries. The species name, caerulea, refers to the blue filaments of the flower.
Flowering and Fruiting
Bluecrown Passionflower produces unique saucer-shaped flowers on long stems, blooming from early summer to early fall. The flowers are followed by green fruits that mature into yellow or deep orange by late summer through fall. These fruits are partly hollow, with deep red pulp surrounding a significant number of seeds. In warm winter climates, the plant remains evergreen, while in temperate climates, it is deciduous.
Cultivation and Care
An ornamental plant, Bluecrown Passionflower is ideal for arbors, containers, cottage gardens, trellises, walls, and fences. The plant’s tendrils cling easily to surfaces without causing damage. While it thrives in high humidity, poor air circulation can lead to fungal diseases, especially if too much top growth is removed simultaneously. Butterfly caterpillars may feed on mature plants, but the flowers attract both bees and butterflies.
Propagation and Maintenance: Bluecrown Passionflower can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Pruning after blooming helps manage the plant’s size, and regular deadheading promotes continued flowering. It’s recommended to cut back the year’s growth by one-half during pruning.
Attributes
- Genus: Passiflora
- Species: caerulea
- Family: Passifloraceae
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Recommended Propagation: Seed, Stem Cutting
- Origin: Bolivia to Brazil and Northern Argentina
Wildlife and Edibility
Bluecrown Passionflower serves as a host plant for butterflies and attracts various pollinators. While the plant’s fruit is edible, it has a bland taste. Additionally, parts of the plant can be used to make a stress-relieving tea.
Physical Characteristics
- Height: 10-40 feet
- Width: 3-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Maintenance: Medium
- Texture: Medium
Light and Soil Requirements
- Light: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight), Partial shade (2-6 hours of sunlight)
- Soil Texture: Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH: Acidic (<6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0), Alkaline (>8.0)
- Soil Drainage: Well-drained, Moist
Hardiness Zones
This plant is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 6a through 10b, making it versatile in various climates.
Fruit Description
The egg-shaped fruits, measuring around 2.5 x 1.5 inches, change from green to yellow or deep orange as they mature. The interior contains a small amount of red pulp surrounded by numerous seeds. The seeds, approximately 4mm in length, are silvery brown.
Flower Description
The solitary flowers of the Bluecrown Passionflower are typically 2.5 to 3 inches wide and saucer-shaped. They have 10 tepals that are white to whitish-pink on the inside and greenish on the outside. The circle of blue filaments in the flower’s center adds to its beauty. Blooming from early summer to early fall, these flowers attract both bees and butterflies.
Leaf and Stem Characteristics
- Leaf: Shiny, hairless, green, with smooth margins, typically 5-lobed (can range from 3 to 9 lobes), 4-6 inches wide.
- Stem: Green and brown, smooth, with coiling tendrils.
Landscape Uses
Bluecrown Passionflower is ideal for container gardening, patio spaces, and vertical landscapes. It is particularly popular in butterfly and children’s gardens, offering privacy and aesthetic appeal.
Resistance to Challenges
The plant exhibits good resistance to heat and humidity, making it a resilient choice for gardeners.
In conclusion, Passiflora caerulea is a versatile and attractive plant that offers both aesthetic and ecological benefits. Its ability to thrive in various environments, combined with its striking flowers and fruits, makes it a valuable addition to any garden.
