Passiflora Marijke - Passion Flower

The Passiflora 'Marijke' is a hybrid variety resulting from the cross-breeding of Passiflora decaisneana and P. caerulea. The result is a beautiful climbing liana that offers from spring to autumn a constellation of large flowers in a deep and intense magenta purple, nicely contrasted by blue indigo filaments ringed with white. 'Marijke' remains relatively compact with its 3 to 4 m (10 to 13ft) height. Therefore, it will be perfectly comfortable in a patio pot or a conservatory and brought indoors when temperatures drop below -2°C (28.4°F) maximum.

Mostly native to tropical areas of South America, passionflowers belong to the large family of Passifloraceae, which includes 400 species and numerous spontaneous or horticultural hybrids.

'Marijke' is a voluble plant that clings to its support with tendrils, reaching an average height of 3 m (10ft). Its long stems are adorned with leaves divided into 3 thick oval lobes of a bright medium green, more or less evergreen. Its flowering extends from July to early autumn, in the form of 12 cm (5in) diameter flowers that constantly renew themselves on the plant. Its fragrant flowers are composed of tubular sepals in a deep magenta purple contrasting beautifully with the crown of blue indigo filaments ringed with white and its tender yellow stamens. They are highly appreciated by pollinating insects.

This Passion Flower is not a capricious and difficult plant to grow like some orchids. It grows easily in any well-drained, light, fairly deep and not-too-dry soil in summer and blooms generously in the sun in a sheltered location. At the end of flowering, pruning consists of reducing the branches to maintain a beautiful habit. With its compact habit, 'Marijke' will be highly appreciated in conservatories or greenhouses where it will safely endure cold winters.