Passiflora caerulea

Passiflora caerulea

Blue passionflower

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Blue passionflowerBluecrown passionflowerCommon passion flower

Context

nativeRegion

South America (mainly Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay)

usdaZones

7–11

companionPlants

Clematis, Wisteria, Morning Glory, Jasmine

culturalUses

Cultivated for its striking flowers and edible (though bland) fruit; used ornamentally on fences, trellises, and pergolas.

Care

LightPrefers full sun to partial shade; needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

WateringWater regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow the top inch to dry out between waterings.

SoilThrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0–7.5).

FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; can tolerate lower humidity if watered consistently.

TemperatureOptimal temperatures are 15–30°C (59–86°F); tolerates light frosts but not prolonged freezing.

HabitVigorous, twining woody vine with tendrils.

Mature Size6–12 meters (20–40 feet) in length if allowed to climb.

Growth RateFast-growing, especially in warm conditions.

BloomingBlooms in late spring to autumn; showy, fragrant blue and white flowers.

DormancyPartially deciduous in colder climates; may die back to base in winter and regrow in spring.

MethodsSeeds, Softwood cuttings, Layering

DifficultyModerate—seeds may require scarification and cuttings need high humidity to root.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningPrune after flowering to control size and shape, and remove dead or weak growth.

RepottingRepot young plants annually; mature vines every 2-3 years or as needed.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, and fungal diseases (root rot, leaf spot).

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets; unripe fruit may cause mild stomach upset if ingested.

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