Passiflora caerulea

File:Passiflora caerulea.jpg

Passiflora caerulea

Passiflora caerulea, also known as the Blue Passionflower or the Common Passion Flower, is a species of flowering plant native to South America. It is a perennial vine capable of growing up to 10 meters high, and is known for its distinctive blue and white flowers and orange fruit.

Description

The Passiflora caerulea is a fast-growing vine, with leaves that are palmately lobed and finely toothed. The flowers are complex, with a double row of blue or white filaments surrounding a central column of reproductive parts. The fruit is an orange-yellow berry, containing numerous black seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Passiflora caerulea is native to Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil. It prefers subtropical climates, and is often found in open woodlands and along forest edges. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe, Australia and North America, where it is often grown as an ornamental plant.

Cultivation

In cultivation, Passiflora caerulea is often grown for its attractive flowers and fruit. It prefers a sunny position with well-drained soil, and can be propagated from seed or cuttings. It is also used as a food plant by the larvae of some species of Lepidoptera, including the Monarch butterfly.

Uses

The fruit of the Passiflora caerulea is edible, although it is not as highly regarded as that of some other species of Passiflora. The leaves and flowers are also used in traditional medicine in some cultures, and the plant is grown as a host for the Passionflower butterfly in butterfly gardens.

See also

• List of Passiflora species
• Passiflora

References

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