Passiflora vitifolia

The Passiflora vitifolia is a botanical variety endemic to the tropical forests of Brazil. This beautiful, vigorous climber breathes exoticism with its large bright red-orange flowers with elongated and pointed petals, topped with a short collar of purple filaments and yellow and red stamens. This species forms a compact plant, averaging 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 feet) in height, which flowers from late spring to early autumn. It can be grown in a pot on the patio or a conservatory and should be brought indoors when temperatures drop below -2°C (28.4°F).

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

The Passiflora vitifolia is a species native to the tropical forests of Brazil. This exotic voluble plant clings to its support with tendrils, reaching an average height of 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 feet). Its long stems are adorned with shiny trilobed leaves, more or less evergreen, of medium green colour and velvety underside. Its flowering extends from July to early autumn in the form of large flowers that constantly renew themselves on the plant. Its fragrant flowers are formed by bright red tepals and petals. These are topped with a short crown of purple filaments and yellow and red stamens.

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 flowers generously in the sun in a sheltered location. At the end of flowering, pruning consists of reducing the branches to maintain a beautiful habit. It thrives in milder climates. With its compact habit, Passiflora vitifolia will be highly appreciated in conservatories or greenhouses, where it will withstand cold winters without damage.