Passionflower Passiflora 'La Morellina'
ABOUT
Passiflora 'La Morellina', commonly known as the Passion Flower, is a plant celebrated for its striking and exotic flowers. The bloom is the most distinctive feature of this plant, showcasing a complex structure with several layers. The flowers are usually a mesmerizing blend of colors, often with a base of lavender or purple. Radiating from the center, filaments create a frilly halo around a central column, which is comprised of the reproductive parts of the flower. Beneath the filaments, there are typically five petals and five sepals that look similar to each other, contributing to the flower's symmetrical appearance. The leaves of the Passion Flower add to the plant's overall beauty. They are typically deep green and divided into three lobes with smooth or serrated edges, depending on the variety. The foliage forms a lush backdrop that helps to highlight the complexity of the flowers. In addition to the flowers and leaves, the Passion Flower also produces tendrils that help it climb and provide support to the plant as it grows. These tendrils curl around any available support, allowing the Passion Flower to sprawl and intertwine with other plants or structures. The appearance of the Passion Flower fruit, often called passionfruit, is also notable. The fruit is oval or round and can have a yellow or purple rind when ripe, depending on the specific type. Inside, it houses a juicy, seed-filled interior that is both aromatic and edible. Overall, the Passion Flower is a delight to the senses with its complex flowers, lush foliage, and intriguing fruit, making it a captivating addition to any garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Passifloraceae
Synonyms
Passion Flower, Passion Vine
Common names
Passiflora 'La Morellina'.
ToxicityTo humans
Passiflora 'La Morellina', commonly known as passion flower, is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, consuming large quantities of the plant, particularly the unripe fruit, may lead to mild symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, or a rapid heartbeat. The leaves and roots may contain more potentially harmful compounds and should be avoided. Ingesting parts of this plant is not typically dangerous, but it is advisable to consume it in moderation and to avoid large amounts, especially if one is pregnant or has health problems that might be exacerbated by its sedative properties.
To pets
Passion flower is not generally regarded as toxic to pets. However, as with humans, consuming large amounts of the plant, specifically unripe fruit, leaves, or roots, could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset or nervous system effects in sensitive pets. Signs of distress may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in behavior. It is always best to keep pets from consuming plants not specifically intended for them to avoid any possible adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Passiflora 'La Morellina', commonly known as Passion Flower, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its intricate and vibrant flowers.
- Pollinator attractant: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, aiding pollination of nearby plants.
- Shade provider: The plant has a climbing habit, which allows it to cover structures and provide natural shade in garden spaces.
- Screening: Passion Flower vines can be used to create living screens, offering privacy and reducing noise pollution.
- Cultural significance: The Passion Flower has historical and cultural significance in many societies, often used in art and symbolism.
- Fruit production: Certain varieties of Passion Flower can produce edible fruits known as passionfruit, which are popular for their unique flavor.
- Ecosystem support: The plant provides habitat and food for various insects and birds, supporting local biodiversity.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that may help to reduce oxidative stress in the body.
- Anxiolytic: Has potential calming effects and may help reduce anxiety.
- Sedative: Might be used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Analgesic: Could possibly provide relief from pain.
- Antispasmodic: May help to relieve muscle spasms or cramps.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains components that might reduce inflammation in the body.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible Landscaping: Passiflora 'La Morellina', also known as Passion Flower, can be used in gardens not only for its fruits but also for its ornamental value, thanks to its intricate and colorful flowers.
- Educational Tool: Passion Flower has complex structures that can be used to teach botanical concepts and plant biology, making it a practical example in educational gardens or biology classes.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use Passion Flower as a muse for its unique form, incorporating its design into various forms of art such as painting, drawing, textile patterns, and even jewelry design.
- Handicrafts: The vines of Passion Flower can be dried and used to create woven goods, such as baskets or mats, showcasing natural materials in handmade crafts.
- Photography Subject: The striking appearance of Passion Flower makes it a popular subject for photographers interested in capturing the diversity and beauty of plant life.
- Natural Pesticide: Some components of Passion Flower may be effective as a natural pesticide, deterring garden pests while being safer for the environment.
- Companion Planting: Passion Flower can be grown alongside other plants to create a beneficial ecosystem, potentially enhancing pollination and improving the growth of nearby plants.
- Perfumery: While not common, the scent of Passion Flower can be used in creating floral notes for perfumes or scented products.
- Culinary Garnish: The flowers of Passion Flower can be used as an exotic and decorative garnish for various dishes, adding a tropical touch to culinary presentations.
- Floral Arrangements: Due to its striking appearance, Passion Flower can be incorporated into floral arrangements to add an exotic and dramatic flair to bouquets or table centerpieces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Passion Flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Passion Flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Passion: The passiflora, commonly known as passionflower, derives its name from the symbolic representation of Christ’s passion and suffering. The various parts of the flower are thought to represent features of the crucifixion, with the tendrils symbolizing the whips used in the flagellation, the ten petals and sepals representing the ten faithful apostles, the radial filaments depicting the crown of thorns, and the three stigma corresponding to the three nails used.
- Christian Faith: Passionflower is also symbolic of faith among Christians due to its historical connection with the crucifixion of Christ, which makes it a representation of belief and piety.
- Sacrifice: This plant is associated with the idea of sacrifice as it is tied to the Easter story and the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus according to Christian tradition.
- Peace: Known for its calming properties, passionflower is symbolic of peace and tranquility, which coincides with the Christian message of peace.
- Mystical Awareness: Due to the complexity and unique structure of the flower, it symbolizes mystery and the unknown, representing an invitation to explore spiritual consciousness and the divine.
WaterThe Passionflower requires consistent moisture, so it's best to water it thoroughly once every week with approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water; this may vary depending on the climate and soil conditions. During hot, dry periods, the frequency should increase to twice per week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root problems, so it's crucial to have well-draining soil.
LightPassionflowers thrive in full sun to partial shade. They should be placed in a spot where they can receive a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight each day, but can also benefit from filtered afternoon shade in locations with intense sun exposure. The perfect spot would be east or west-facing with some protection from the harshest midday sun.
TemperaturePassionflowers prefer a temperate climate, with ideal temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50°F, however, exposure to temperatures below 32°F can be detrimental. They perform best in an environment that doesn't experience extreme temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning Passionflowers can encourage bushier growth and enhance flowering. It is best to prune in early spring, just before new growth begins, removing any dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and size. Light pruning can be done throughout the year to remove spent flowers and keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPassionflower 'La Morellina' thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A mixture of loamy soil, peat, coarse sand, and well-rotted compost is ideal for providing the necessary nutrients and drainage. Regular application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season will support its vigorous growth and bloom.
RepottingPassionflower 'La Morellina' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Spring is the best time for repotting to allow the plant to establish in the new container before the active growing season.
Humidity & MistingPassionflower 'La Morellina' prefers moderate to high humidity levels, around 50-60%. It thrives in environments that simulate its native tropical conditions, so maintaining adequate humidity is crucial for its health and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cyclePassiflora 'La Morellina', commonly known as the 'Passion Flower', begins its life as a seed that requires well-drained soil and warm temperatures to germinate. The seedlings establish themselves with a strong root system, after which the vine begins to grow rapidly, often needing support as it develops tendrils to climb. Following a period of vegetative growth, the passion flower enters its flowering stage, producing intricate, exotic-looking flowers that are often pollinated by bees, butterflies, or hummingbirds. Once successful pollination occurs, the plant develops fruit, which are oval-shaped berries that may be edible depending on the specific variety. After seeding, the parent plant may go into a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, during which it conserves energy until favorable growth conditions resume. The passion flower can also propagate vegetatively through cuttings, thus continuing its life cycle without seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Passiflora 'La Morellina', commonly known as Passion Flower, is through cuttings. This process generally takes place in late spring or early summer. Semi-ripe stem cuttings, about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, are selected from the current season's growth. Each cutting should have at least three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cuttings are then inserted into a well-draining, sandy potting mix and kept moist. It is crucial to provide a warm environment, such as a propagator or plastic covering, to maintain humidity. Roots will typically develop within a few weeks, after which the cuttings can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before being potted on.
