Crimson Passionflower

Crimson passionflower is a vigorous, strong growing vine which bears large 8" wide flowers with deep vivid red sepals and petals that, as the flower ages, become distinctly reflexed. The leaves are 6" long, deep green and three-lobed. As the species name "vitifolia" implies, the foliage of this vine is like that of the grape (Vitis).

Plant Facts:

Common Name:   Crimson Passionflower

Botanical Name:   Passiflora vitifolia

Family:  Passifloraceae 

Plant Type:  Evergreen vine

Origin: Nicaragua to Peru

Zones: 10 - 11

Height:  15' or more

Rate of Growth: Fast

Salt Tolerance: Low

Soil Requirements:  Rich, well drained, moist

Water Requirements: Medium drought tolerance

Nutritional Requirements: Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly, bloom boost fertilizer around bloom time. Too much nitrogen promotes excessive vegetative growth and few flowers.

Light Requirements: Full sun

Form:  Vigorous vine

Leaves:  Glossy, dark green to 6" long and 7" across

Flowers: Fragrant, large 8" wide flowers with deep vivid red sepals and petals

Fruits: Ovoid, downy, yellow-green, possibly edible

Pests or diseases:  Caterpillars, leaf spot, viruses, scale insects, iron deficiency

Uses:  Privacy vine, trained up a pergola or tree

Bad Habits: Foliage and flowers may attract butterflies and caterpillars, but not a first choice for them in a butterfly garden. Vigorous vine may require heavy pruning to maintain control.

Cost:  $$ -- Very reasonable

Propagation:  Seeds, root semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or layer in spring and autumn

Sources:  Tropical Look: An Encyclopedia of Dramatic Landscape Plants; American Horticultural Society A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants