Exeter Passion Flower Passiflora × exoniensis
ABOUT
Passiflora × exoniensis, commonly known as the Exeter passion flower, showcases a fascinating and intricate flower structure that is highly ornamental and eye-catching. The central bloom is composed of a whorl of pointed, narrow petals and sepals which can come in a variety of colors, including pinks and purples. Radiating from the center are delicate, hair-like filaments forming a frilly corona, often in bands of multiple hues that may include white, purple, and pink shades. Surrounding the reproductive parts, the plant typically displays a prominent trio of stigmas that sit atop slender styles, adding to the complexity of the flower's appearance. Below these, the plant bears a ring of stamens, each with pollen-containing anthers, another key element of the flower's intricate design. The foliage of the Exeter passion flower consists of glossy, deep green leaves. These leaves are generally large and lobed, often with a palmate shape that gives them a slightly tropical appearance. The vines may also produce curly tendrils that help the plant in climbing and support. The Exeter passion flower, being a hybrid, may exhibit a range of these described features with some variation in color intensity and petal shape that can be influenced by environmental factors and breeding specifics, but typically retains the characteristic complex flower structure that is a hallmark of the passionflower genus.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Passifloraceae
Synonyms
Exeter Passion Flower, Exoniensis Passion Flower
Common names
Passiflora × exoniensis
ToxicityTo humans
Passiflora × exoniensis, commonly known as the Exeter passion flower, is not typically known for being toxic to humans. However, it is always possible that some individuals may have specific sensitivities to this plant. If any part of the plant was ingested and symptoms of an adverse reaction do occur, it is important to seek medical advice. Some species of Passiflora may contain compounds that can have varying effects, but typically, the Exeter passion flower is not associated with severe toxicity in humans.
To pets
Passiflora × exoniensis, or Exeter passion flower, is not widely recognized as being toxic to pets. However, as with humans, individual pets could potentially have sensitivities or allergic reactions to the plant. Generally, ingestion of the Exeter passion flower is not expected to cause significant symptoms of poisoning in pets. If a pet does consume this plant and shows any signs of distress or unusual behavior, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian. Common signs to watch for in case of plant toxicity in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, but these are not commonly associated with the Exeter passion flower.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Passiflora × exoniensis, commonly known as Exeter Passion Flower, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its distinctive flowers.
- Habitat for Wildlife: It provides nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity.
- Educational Interest: Gardeners and botany enthusiasts may find interest in its unique hybrid origins and complex flower structure.
- Cultural Significance: Passion flowers often have symbolic meanings in different cultures, which can add an element of cultural or spiritual value to a garden or collection.
- Shade Provider: With its vigorous climbing habit, it can create shaded areas when grown over arbors or pergolas.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Passiflora × exoniensis, commonly known as Exeter Passion Flower, can be used in educational settings as a living illustration of the botanical concepts such as hybridization and plant structure due to its distinctive features.
- The Exeter Passion Flower's complex and vibrant flowers are an excellent subject for botanical artists or photographers aiming to capture the plant's intricate beauty in their work.
- Because of its fast-growing nature, the Exeter Passion Flower can be utilized in gardening workshops to teach pruning and training of climbing plants.
- Its broad and lush foliage provides a natural green backdrop for outdoor events and garden parties, enhancing the aesthetic of the space.
- The Exeter Passion Flower can be grown as a screen to provide privacy in garden patios or terraces.
- Cultivated in a conservatory or greenhouse, it can create a tropical atmosphere, adding to the theme of exotic plant collections.
- The plant can be used in noise reduction in urban gardens as its dense growth can help dampen ambient noise.
- Insect enthusiasts might cultivate the Exeter Passion Flower to attract and observe pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- The tendrils of the Exeter Passion Flower can be used as a natural craft material for weaving small decorative items.
- Integrated into a sensory garden, the Exeter Passion Flower contributes a variety of textures for a tactile experience, from its leathery leaves to its unique floral structure.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Passionflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Passionflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Passion: The passionflower, including Passiflora × exoniensis, symbolically represents the passion of Christ due to its structure, which some believe reflects the crucifixion (with components representing the crown of thorns, nails, and five wounds).
- Spiritual Enlightenment: With its intricate and slightly ethereal appearance, the passionflower is often associated with a higher spiritual awareness or enlightenment, suggesting a complexity that goes beyond the earthly plane.
- Peace: In various cultures, the passionflower denotes peace and tranquility, which makes it a common plant to give to someone seeking solace or calm in their life.
- Christian Faith: Besides evoking the passion of Christ, this plant has been used as a teaching tool to impart the tenets of the Christian faith, with each part of the flower holding religious significance.
WaterExeter Sunset Vine prefers consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Generally, water the plant thoroughly once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on the weather conditions - more frequent watering may be necessary during hot, dry periods and less during cooler, wetter periods. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to ensure good drainage.
LightExeter Sunset Vine thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. The optimal spot for this plant would be in an area where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, with some dappled shade in the afternoon to protect from the intense heat. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureExeter Sunset Vine enjoys warm temperatures and does best in a range between 55° and 85° Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of about 50° Fahrenheit; however, frost or prolonged exposure to temperatures below this can damage or kill the plant. The ideal temperature range promotes healthy growth and flowering.
PruningPruning the Exeter Sunset Vine is important for maintaining a vigorous and aesthetically pleasing form, as well as encouraging new growth and blooms. Prune in early spring before new growth begins, removing dead or damaged stems and shaping the vine as desired. It's also beneficial to thin out dense growth to improve air circulation. Pruning can be done annually or as necessary to control size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Exeter passion flower requires well-draining, fertile soil that is high in organic matter. A good mix would be one part peat, one part pine bark, and one part coarse sand or perlite. To encourage healthy growth and flowering, maintain a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingExeter passion flower should be repotted every 2 to 3 years during the spring before the new growth starts. Younger plants may prefer an annual repot to accommodate their rapid growth. Ensure a pot only slightly larger than the previous to avoid excessively wet soil.
Humidity & MistingThe Exeter passion flower thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. Regular misting or a humidity tray can help maintain these conditions, which are especially important during the drier winter months when indoor heating can reduce indoor humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, maintain high humidity, and provide support for climbing.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds, ensure soil is well-drained.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cyclePassiflora × exoniensis, commonly known as Exeter Passion Flower, begins its life as a seed, often requiring warm temperatures to germinate. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a vigorous vine, developing complex leaves and specialized tendrils for climbing and support. The plant reaches maturity and starts blooming, producing distinctive passion flowers, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of fruit if the flowers are fertilized. After pollination, the ovary develops into a fleshy fruit that houses numerous seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The vine undergoes seasonal growth, with active periods in warm seasons and dormancy or reduced activity during colder months. As a perennial, Passiflora × exoniensis can live for several years, flowering and fruiting annually under optimal conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method to propagate Passiflora × exoniensis, more commonly known as the Exeter passion flower, is through semi-ripe stem cuttings. Typically, the best time for taking cuttings is in the late summer, as the new growth begins to harden slightly. To do this, one would select a healthy portion of the stem about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long, cutting just below a leaf node. The leaves near the base of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix or a propagation medium, kept moist, and ideally situated in a warm, bright area without direct sunlight. Covering the pot with a plastic bag can help retain moisture and create a greenhouse effect, further encouraging rooting. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
