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Passiflora caerulea: Blue Passion Flower Vine
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Passiflora caerulea, commonly known as the blue passionflower or bluecrown passionflower, is a striking semi-evergreen vine native to South America, prized for its exotic, showy flowers and vigorous growth habit.
Intricate Floral Structure
en.wikipedia.org
Passiflora caerulea is a woody vine capable of growing up to 25 meters (82 ft) tall with supporting trees.
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The leaves are alternate, palmately 5-lobed (sometimes 3, 7, or 9 lobes), 10 cm (3.9 in) long, linear-oblong in shape with twining tendrils 5-10 cm (2-3.9 in) long to aid climbing. 1
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The showy flowers are around 10 cm (3.9 in) wide, with 5 whitish sepals and petals, a striking blue or violet fringe-like corona, 5 greenish-yellow stamens, and 3 purple stigmas. 1
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The oval orange-yellow berry is 6 x 4 cm (2.4 x 1.6 in), containing many seeds. 1
Though edible when fully ripe, the fruit tends to have an undesirable flavor unless allowed to fall naturally, when it develops a mild blackberry taste but lower sugar content than common fruits. 1
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Vigorous Climbing Vine
Passiflora caerulea is a vigorous, fast-growing climbing vine that can reach heights of 15-30 feet.
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It climbs by means of tendrils and requires a sturdy trellis or support structure. The vines are semi-evergreen and produce copious amounts of lush, deep green foliage. 3
Once established, this rampant grower can quickly cover walls, arbors, and pergolas with its dense foliage and showy blooms. 4
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Careful pruning is required to keep the exuberant growth in check and direct the vines where desired. 1
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Its vigor makes it an excellent choice for rapidly covering vertical surfaces or creating lush privacy screens.5 sources
Passiflora caerulea Video
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Medicinal Properties and Applications
nccih.nih.gov
In traditional Argentine folk medicine, Passiflora caerulea has been used as a mild antimicrobial agent and for its sedative and anxiolytic properties.
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Modern research has found the plant to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal, and digestive benefits. 1
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Additionally, extracts from the leaves, roots, and fruit are employed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other nervous system disorders due to their calming effects. 1
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Cultivation and Care Tips
plantly.io
Passiflora caerulea thrives in well-drained, moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
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It requires a sturdy support like a trellis or fence to climb. The vine can be propagated from seeds by sowing them on the soil surface in moist potting mix, covering with plastic to retain moisture until germination in 2 months. 3
Alternatively, take 15 cm stem cuttings in spring, remove lower leaves, and root them in damp soil. 2
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Water established plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. 4
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. 4
Prune annually in late winter to remove dead growth and control size. 2
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Provide consistent moisture during dry spells and feed regularly when actively growing for best flowering and vigor. 1
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Blue Passionflower (Photos)
passionflow.co.uk
plantvine.com
homedepot.com
Invasive Potential and Wildlife Benefits
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While Passiflora caerulea is a popular ornamental vine prized for its exotic blooms, it has become invasive in some regions like New Zealand and parts of East Africa.
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Its vigorous growth, ability to spread by seed and vegetative means, and lack of natural controls allow it to outcompete native vegetation. 1
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Control measures include manual removal of young plants, cutting and herbicide treatment of larger vines, and potential biological control agents. 1
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However, the showy blue and white flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it valuable for wildlife gardens if carefully managed to prevent spread. 2
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Showy Blue and White Blooms
gardenia.net
The blue passionflower (Passiflora caerulea) is renowned for its spectacular, showy blooms that are a striking combination of blue and white. The intricate flowers measure 4-5 inches across, with white petals surrounded by a vivid blue and white fringe-like corona.
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These exotic, almost otherworldly blooms appear in summer and continue into fall, opening at night and slowly closing during the day. 3
Though each individual flower lasts only 48 hours, the vine produces a profuse display over an extended period. 3
The showy blue and white blooms are not only visually stunning but also highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. 4
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Closing Thoughts
Passiflora caerulea is a true showstopper in the late summer garden, especially in hot climates where it can reach its full potential as a mature, vigorous vine. This exotic South American native, with its intricate blue and white flowers, is an amazing plant that has been celebrated as the national flower of several countries for its incredible beauty. Whether grown on a trellis, arbor, or allowed to scramble through trees, the blue passionflower never fails to draw admiring glances with its unique blooms that seem almost too perfect to be real.
Related
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