If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful plant to grow in your home, consider caring for a passiflora caerulea.
Also known as the blue passion vine or passion flower, this striking plant is native to the region stretching from Mexico to South America.
It features a vibrant array of flowers depending on the species. The Passiflora comes in over 400 species.
Its name has historical significance, as Spanish missionaries named it in the 17th century.
They saw the flowers as a representation of the Passion of Christ, with the radial filaments representing the Crown of Thorns and the central corona resembling the Holy Spirit.
It’s known by several common names, including:
- Blue passion flower
- Blue crown passion flower
This article will give you an overview of the passiflora caerulea, including its appearance, care requirements, and common problems.
So read on to learn everything you need to know about this captivating plant.
While it’s not the easiest plant to care for, you can enjoy its beauty for many years to come with a little patience and attention.
Quick Facts On Passiflora Caerulea
- Family: Passifloraceae
- Light: Good light; Shade
- Temperature: 56° to 65° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Weekly water in summer and moderate in winter
- Fertilize: Weekly in summer but none in winter
- Propagation: Cuttings in pot
- Common Problems: Yellow leaves, aphids, pale spotty leaves, spider mites, white flies
Passiflora Caerulea Plant Care
How Big Do Blue Passion Flower Plants Grow?
When you own a blue passion flower, you can expect it to grow to unlimited heights.
This makes it an excellent plant for covering an unsightly fence or trellis.
The plant’s leaves are usually 3-lobed and can be either smooth or hairy, depending on the species.
When Does Passiflora Caerulea Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The flowers are what make this plant stand out. They can be white, yellow, blue, or purple and have 3″ to 4″ inches in diameter.
The flowers are followed by an edible fruit about the size of an egg. The fruit is often used in jams and jellies.
The flowers possess a mild fragrance. However, the orange fruit yields smell and taste amazing.
You can expect the flowers to bloom continuously from May to September.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The passiflora caerulea needs fresh air and good light for flowers, but it can tolerate shade.
The plant prefers a temperature of 56° to 65° degrees Fahrenheit but can withstand short periods outside this range.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Blue Passion Flower?
Water the plant weekly in summer and moderate in winter. You should fertilize the plant weekly in summer but hold off on doing so in winter.
Remember to use warm water during care and keep the soil moist.
What Is The Best Soil for Passiflora Caerulea Plant And When Should You Transplant?
In addition to keeping your soil moist, ensure it is nutrient-rich and well-draining.
A good potting mix or African violet mix will do the trick. As long as the soil is limey and heavy, the plant will be happy.
You can transplant your passion flower in spring or summer. Just don’t worry about doing so every year.
It is fine to transplant your plant every 2 to 3 years or whenever it becomes root bound.
Does The Blue Passion Flower Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Pruning is important to promote new growth and keep your plant healthy.
You should prune your plant every few months, cutting back any dead or diseased stems.
For ideal flowering, trim the weakest branches in summer. Give it a trim of about 8″ to 20″ inches for fall upkeep.
How To Propagate Passiflora Caerulea?
The best way to propagate this plant is through cuttings taken from a healthy parent plant.
Place the cuttings in a pot with moist, well-draining soil and keep them in a warm location.
The cuttings should take root within a few weeks.
Passiflora caerulea can also be propagated by seed, but it is more commonly done through cuttings.
To propagate by seed, plant the seeds in potting mix and keep them moist.
The seeds will germinate in 2 to 3 weeks.
Blue Passion Flower Pests And Diseases
Unfortunately, the passiflora caerulea is susceptible to several pests and diseases. These include the following:
- Yellow leaves
- Aphids
- Pale, spotty leaves
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies and more.
If you notice any of these problems with your plant, you should take action immediately.
Treating the plant with an insecticide or fungicide will usually do the trick.
Is The Passiflora Caerulea Plant Considered Toxic or Poisonous To People, Kids, Or Pets?
The passiflora caerulea plant is considered toxic to humans and animals.
The plant contains several chemicals that can cause the following:
- Stomach upset
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you suspect your child or pet has ingested the plant, you should immediately contact a doctor or veterinarian.
Is The Passion Flower Considered Invasive?
The passiflora caerulea is not considered to be invasive. However, it can spread quickly, growing to unlimited heights if not properly cared for.
To prevent the plant from spreading, make sure to prune it regularly.
Suggested Passiflora Caerulea Uses
The passiflora caerulea is a beautiful, fragrant plant that can add a touch of elegance to any garden.
Whether you’re looking for a plant to add to your annual border or a perennial that will come back year after year, the passiflora caerulea is an excellent option.