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Description
Passiflora Caerulea Constance Eliott, commonly known as the blue crown passionflower, is a species of passionflower vine native to South America. It is a fast-growing evergreen plant with a sprawling habit that can reach up to 20 feet in length. This plant is popular for its showy blue and white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are followed by egg-shaped fruit that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
Appearance
The blue crown passionflower has large, three-lobed leaves that are glossy green and measure up to 6 inches in length. The flowers are striking and showy, with blue and white petals that are arranged in a radial pattern. The petals are surrounded by a fringe of purple filaments and a ring of blue and white coronal filaments. The fruit of this plant is about the size of a large egg and is green when unripe, turning yellow-orange when ripe.
Care Guide
The blue crown passionflower is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The blue crown passionflower is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Common pests that may affect this plant include spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The blue crown passionflower is native to South America and is found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and is also used in traditional medicine for its sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the blue crown passionflower toxic?
A: The leaves and stems of this plant contain cyanogenic glycosides and can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. However, the fruit of the plant is edible and is used in some traditional dishes.
Q: How often should I fertilize my blue crown passionflower?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the blue crown passionflower be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has sufficient room to grow and good drainage.
Q: Does the blue crown passionflower attract butterflies?
A: Yes, this plant is a host plant for several species of butterflies, including the Gulf fritillary.
Related Plants
- Passiflora incarnata (Maypop)
- Passiflora edulis (Passionfruit)
- Passiflora lutea (Yellow Passionflower)
- Passiflora vitifolia (Crimson Passionflower)
References
- “Passiflora caerulea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 6, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286415&isprofile=0&
- “Passiflora caerulea.” Plant Database. Accessed October 6, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/passiflora-caerulea/
- “Passiflora caerulea Constance Elliott.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 6, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12611/i-Passiflora-caerulea-i-Constance-Elliott/Details
