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Passiflora incarnata (Purple Passion Flower)

Purple Passion Flower

Passiflora incarnata 'Inspiration'

Discontinued

Passion Vine is a fast growing perennial vine with outstanding blue blooms that open in the late morning, and last only for the day. Can become invasive if not pruned every few months. 'Inspiration' has larger fragrant flowers with a deeper purple color and better frost hardiness.

Passion Vine's name is derived for the resemblence to the crown of thorns placed on Christ's head. Furthermore, the parts of the plant symbolize features of the Crucifixion. And you thought it was only because it was so pretty the ladies were filled with passion...

Passion Vine is naturally resistant to many insects due to chemicals in it, but are fed upon by two specialized butterfly larvae, the Fult Fritillary and Zebra Longwing.

The other reason it could earn its name is thanks to the Zebra Longwing. The males will fight over the pupa with one another till only one male remains. Then before she emerges from her pupa, the male will penetrate the exoskeleton and mate with her. By the time the female emerges and unfolds her wings, she is already impregnated.

Isn't nature creepy?


Flower Color:

Blue

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Height

15-20 Feet

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Spread

20-30 Feet


USDA Hardiness Zone 7a

Characteristics & Attributes

Deer Tolerance
• Low
Exposure
• Full Sun to Part Shade
Habit
• Perennial
Water Needs
• Medium