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Description
Passiflora Affinis, commonly known as the Bracted Passionflower or White Passionflower, is a vine that belongs to the Passiflora family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in most of Florida, as well as in parts of Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana. This perennial vine has unique flowers that resemble a complex structure and are known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
Appearance
Passiflora Affinis has green leaves that are three-lobed and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers of this plant are small, white, and have a diameter of about 1 inch. The petals are an elongated oval shape with a purple and white corona in the center. The plant produces fruit that is edible, but not commonly consumed.
Care Guide
Water
Passiflora Affinis requires moderate watering. It is essential to maintain consistent moisture in the soil without overwatering. Too much water can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant’s health.
Fertilization
The Bracted Passionflower requires periodic fertilization to thrive. A balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 ratio can be used to provide the plant with necessary nutrients. Fertilize once a month during the growing season.
Soil
The Passiflora Affinis prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support the plant’s growth.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It is recommended to provide at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Passiflora Affinis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Passiflora Affinis is susceptible to pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. The plant can also be affected by fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause leaf spots and root rot. To prevent these issues, the plant should be regularly inspected for signs of infestation or disease.
Habitat
Passiflora Affinis is commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, fields, and forest edges. The plant prefers moist habitats like swamps, marshes, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Passiflora Affinis edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the plant is edible, but it is not commonly consumed.
Q: How often should Passiflora Affinis be fertilized?
A: Once a month during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Passiflora Affinis?
A: Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs are common pests that can affect the plant.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Passiflora Affinis?
A: Passiflora Affinis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Passiflora alata
- Passiflora caerulea
- Passiflora edulis
- Passiflora incarnata
References
- Passiflora Affinis. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/3169509
- Passiflora Affinis. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/vine/pasaff/all.html
- Passiflora Affinis. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/passiflora-affinis/
