Passionflowers (Passiflora spp.) are known for their intricate blooms, distinctive coronas, and striking colors. The genus includes 629 accepted species, along with numerous cultivars and hybrids grown for their ornamental flowers, climbing growth, and, in some species, edible fruit.
Passionflowers are especially diverse in the Americas, although the genus also occurs naturally in parts of Asia and the southwestern Pacific. Popular garden choices range from blue passionflower (Passiflora caerulea) and fruiting P. edulis to colorful hybrids such as ‘Lady Margaret’ and ‘Raspberry Strudel.’
In this guide, you’ll discover 13 distinctive passionflower varieties, their characteristics and growing requirements, plus practical tips for cultivation, propagation, and care.
Flower Lovers Want to Know
How many species of passionflower are there?
The genus Passiflora includes 629 accepted species, along with numerous cultivars and hybrids. Most are climbing vines, although other growth forms occur.
Which passionflowers are the most cold hardy?
Passiflora incarnata (maypop) is one of the better-known cold-hardy species. P. caerulea and ‘Constance Eliott’ also tolerate cooler conditions than many tropical passionflowers.
Which passionflowers produce edible fruit?
Passiflora edulis produces the familiar passionfruit, while P. quadrangularis and several other species also have edible fruit. Only consume fruit from a positively identified edible species.
What is the difference between passionflower and passionfruit?
Passionflower refers to plants in the genus Passiflora, while passionfruit usually refers to the edible fruit of certain species, particularly P. edulis.
Do passionflowers need full sun?
Many passionflowers flower best with plenty of sunlight, although requirements vary by species and climate. Some benefit from afternoon shade in very hot conditions.
Can passionflowers grow in containers?
Yes. Passionflowers can grow well in containers with good drainage, sufficient light, and sturdy support for their climbing stems.
Are passionflowers annuals or perennials?
Passionflowers are generally perennials, but winter survival depends on the species and climate. Tropical types require more protection from cold than hardy species such as P. incarnata.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Botanical Name | Passiflora spp. |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Common Name | Passionflower, passion flower |
| Plant Type | Mostly perennial climbing vines; some shrubs and herbs |
| Native Range | Primarily the Americas; also parts of Asia and the southwestern Pacific |
| Flower Colors | Purple, blue, white, pink, red, and multicolored |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade, depending on species |
| Soil | Moist but well-drained |
| Watering | Moderate; varies by species and climate |
| Growth Habit | Mostly climbing or trailing |
| Bloom Season | Typically spring through fall, depending on species and climate |
| Propagation | Seed, cuttings, or layering |
| Uses | Ornamental vines, containers, pollinator gardens, edible fruit from selected species |
| Support | Trellis, fence, arbor, or other climbing structure |
13 Passionflower Varieties: Beautiful Passiflora Species and Hybrids
With hundreds of species and numerous cultivated hybrids, Passiflora offers remarkable diversity in flower color, size, growth habit, cold tolerance, and fruit production. Some passionflowers are grown primarily for their intricate blooms, while others are valued for edible fruit or their ability to cover walls, fences, and trellises.
Below are 13 distinctive passionflower species, cultivars, and hybrids to consider, along with the characteristics that make each one unique.
Why Is It Called a Passionflower?
The name passionflower comes from the flower’s unusual structure. Early Christian missionaries associated features such as the corona, stamens, and stigmas with elements of the Passion of Christ, giving the plant its enduring common name and inspiring the botanical name Passiflora.
Passionflower Varieties at a Glance
| Passionflower | Flower Color | Type | Climate Preference | Edible Fruit | Best Use |
| P. incarnata | Purple and white | Species | Cold tolerant | Yes | Temperate gardens |
| P. edulis | White and purple | Species | Warm, frost-free | Yes | Fruit production |
| P. alata | Red and purple | Species | Tropical | Yes | Tropical gardens |
| P. caerulea | Blue, white and purple | Species | Cooler tolerant | Edible, but not usually grown for fruit | Walls and fences |
| P. vitifolia | Scarlet red | Species | Tropical | Yes | Ornamental displays |
| P. antioquiensis | Pink to reddish-pink | Species | Mild, frost-free | Yes | Pergolas and elevated supports |
| P. quadrangularis | Red, purple and white | Species | Tropical | Yes | Fruit and tropical gardens |
| P. coccinea | Scarlet red | Species | Tropical | Not typically grown for fruit | Ornamental displays |
| P. suberosa | Greenish | Species | Warm | Not typically grown for fruit | Wildlife gardens |
| P. × violacea | Purple to violet | Hybrid | Warm, sheltered | Not typically grown for fruit | Trellises and walls |
| ‘Raspberry Strudel’ | Pink, raspberry and purple | Hybrid | Warm, protected | Not typically grown for fruit | Ornamental displays |
| ‘Constance Eliott’ | White | Cultivar | Cooler tolerant | Edible, but not usually grown for fruit | Walls and fences |
| ‘Lady Margaret’ | Deep red to crimson | Hybrid | Warm, protected | Not typically grown for fruit | Containers and trellises |
Passionflower Varieties
1. Passiflora incarnata – Maypop
Commonly known as maypop, Passiflora incarnata is a perennial climbing vine native to the southeastern and central United States. It produces intricate purple-and-white flowers followed by edible, egg-shaped fruits. More cold-tolerant than many tropical passionflowers, it can die back to the ground after frost and regrow from its roots in spring.
Maypop grows best in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and a sturdy trellis, fence, or other support for its climbing stems.
2. Passiflora edulis – Passionfruit
Passiflora edulis is best known as the species that produces the familiar passionfruit. This vigorous evergreen climber has white flowers accented by purple-and-white coronas, followed by round to oval edible fruits.
A warm-climate species, it grows best in full sun and well-drained soil with sturdy support for its climbing stems. It is an excellent choice for gardeners interested in both ornamental flowers and edible fruit.
3. Passiflora alata – Winged-Stem Passionflower
Also known as winged-stem passionflower, Passiflora alata is a tropical climbing species distinguished by its prominently winged stems and large, fragrant flowers. The blooms combine deep red petals and sepals with a striking banded corona.
This heat-loving vine performs best in warm, frost-free conditions with plenty of light, well-drained soil, and strong climbing support. It also produces edible fruit and is cultivated for both ornamental and food uses in suitable climates.
4. Passiflora caerulea – Blue Passionflower
Blue passionflower (Passiflora caerulea) is one of the most recognizable members of the genus. Its white to pale flowers feature a dramatic corona of blue, purple, and white filaments, followed by orange fruits.
More cold-tolerant than many tropical passionflowers, this vigorous vine can be trained over walls, fences, arbors, and trellises. Give it plenty of light, well-drained soil, and enough space for its vigorous growth.
5. Passiflora vitifolia – Grape-Leaved Passionflower
Passiflora vitifolia is a tropical climbing vine prized for its brilliant scarlet-red flowers and foliage resembling grape leaves. Its vivid blooms make it particularly distinctive among passionflower species.
Because it is frost tender, this species is best suited to warm climates, greenhouses, or protected containers. Provide bright light, warmth, good drainage, and sturdy support for the climbing stems.
6. Passiflora antioquiensis – Red Banana Passionflower
Native to Colombia, Passiflora antioquiensis is a striking climbing species with long, hanging pink to reddish flowers. It also produces elongated fruit, contributing to the common name red banana passionfruit.
This species prefers mild, frost-free conditions and is better suited to climates without extreme heat or cold. Its long flowering stems are especially attractive when allowed to cascade from a pergola or other elevated support.
7. Passiflora quadrangularis – Giant Granadilla
Known as giant granadilla, Passiflora quadrangularis is a vigorous tropical vine notable for its large flowers, distinctly four-angled stems, and exceptionally large edible fruits. The flowers combine red, purple, and white for a dramatic appearance.
This large climber requires warm conditions, fertile well-drained soil, and substantial support. Its size makes it better suited to spacious tropical gardens or protected growing environments than small garden spaces.
8. Passiflora coccinea – Scarlet Passionflower
Passiflora coccinea is a tropical passionflower known for its vivid scarlet-red flowers, which stand out against its green foliage. Its bold coloring makes it an especially striking ornamental climber.
Grow this frost-tender species in a warm, bright location with well-drained soil and climbing support. In colder climates, it is better suited to a greenhouse or a container that can be protected during winter.
9. Passiflora suberosa – Corky-Stem Passionflower
Commonly called corky-stem passionflower, Passiflora suberosa has much smaller and less showy flowers than many of the species in this list. Its greenish flowers are followed by small fruits that darken to purple-black as they mature.
This climbing vine is a good example of the diversity within Passiflora. Rather than being grown for oversized flowers, it is valued for its delicate growth, unusual corky stems, and wildlife interest.
10. Passiflora × violacea
Passiflora × violacea is an ornamental hybrid known for its showy purple to violet flowers and vigorous climbing habit. It has been cultivated in gardens for generations and remains attractive for covering trellises, walls, and other supports.
Passiflora × violacea is less cold-tolerant than hardy passionflower species and performs best in a warm, sheltered location with good light and well-drained soil. Plants may require winter protection in colder climates. It performs best in a warm, sheltered location with good light and well-drained soil and may require winter protection in colder climates.
11. ‘Raspberry Strudel’
‘Raspberry Strudel’ is an ornamental passionflower hybrid prized for its elaborate pink, raspberry, and purple-toned flowers. Its densely patterned corona gives the blooms a particularly dramatic appearance.
This variety is best grown in a warm, bright, protected location with well-drained soil and climbing support. In colder regions, container or greenhouse cultivation makes it easier to protect the plant from low winter temperatures.
12. ‘Constance Eliott’
‘Constance Eliott’ is a white-flowered cultivar of Passiflora caerulea. Its elegant white flowers and pale corona filaments provide a softer alternative to the familiar blue-and-white flowers of the species.
Like blue passionflower, it is relatively tolerant of cooler conditions compared with many tropical Passiflora. Its vigorous climbing habit makes it well suited to sunny, sheltered walls, fences, pergolas, and trellises.
13. ‘Lady Margaret’
‘Lady Margaret’ is an ornamental passionflower hybrid known for its striking deep red to crimson flowers and contrasting central corona. Its unusual coloring makes it an eye-catching choice for tropical-style gardens and container displays.
This vigorous climber performs best in warm conditions with bright light and well-drained soil. Because it is more cold-sensitive than hardy passionflower species, plants grown in cooler climates may require greenhouse or indoor winter protection.
How to Grow Passionflowers
Growing requirements vary among Passiflora species and hybrids, especially in their tolerance of cold. Most commonly grown passionflowers benefit from good light, well-drained soil, regular moisture during active growth, and sturdy climbing support.
Soil
- Choose fertile, well-drained soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged.
- For containers, use a free-draining potting mix.
- Always use containers with adequate drainage holes.
Sunlight and Temperature
- Provide full sun or bright light for good flowering.
- Consider afternoon shade in very hot climates.
- Choose a sheltered location where vines are protected from strong winds.
- Match the plant to your climate. P. incarnata tolerates colder winters, while tropical species generally need frost protection.
Watering and Fertilizing
- Water regularly during active growth, especially in hot or dry weather.
- Keep the soil moderately moist but not continuously saturated.
- Check containers more frequently because they can dry out faster.
- Feed established plants during active growth with a balanced fertilizer according to label directions.
- Avoid excessive fertilizer, which can encourage leafy growth rather than flowers.
Pruning and Training
- Provide a trellis, fence, arbor, or other sturdy support.
- Guide young stems toward the support until their tendrils become established.
- Remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded growth as needed.
- Avoid using one heavy-pruning schedule for every passionflower; timing varies by species, climate, and growing conditions.
How to Propagate Passionflowers
Passionflowers can be propagated from seed, stem cuttings, or layering. The best method depends on the species or cultivar. Keep in mind that hybrids grown from seed may not produce plants identical to the parent.
Growing From Seed
- Sow seeds in a moist, well-drained seed-starting mix and keep them warm during germination.
- Keep the growing medium lightly moist rather than saturated.
- Check species-specific recommendations before soaking, scarifying, or otherwise pretreating seeds, as requirements vary.
- Transplant seedlings carefully into individual containers once they are large enough to handle.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are particularly useful for reproducing the characteristics of a cultivar or hybrid.
- Take healthy cuttings while the plant is actively growing.
- Remove the lower leaves and place the stems in a moist, free-draining propagation mix.
- Keep cuttings warm and humid with bright, indirect light while roots develop.
- Move well-rooted cuttings into individual containers once they begin producing healthy new growth.
Layering
Layering allows a stem to form roots while it remains attached to the parent plant.
- Select a healthy, flexible stem that can be bent toward the soil.
- Secure a section of the stem against moist soil, leaving the growing tip exposed.
- Keep the soil around the buried section moderately moist while roots develop.
- Once a strong root system has formed, separate the new plant from the parent and transplant it.
Pests and Diseases
Passionflowers are generally vigorous plants, but they can occasionally develop pest or disease problems. Regular inspection, good air circulation, proper watering, and clean growing conditions can help prevent many issues. For additional treatment options, see our guide to natural pest and disease control.
Common Pests
Aphids may cluster on tender shoots, buds, and the undersides of leaves, where they feed on plant sap. Small infestations can often be removed with a strong spray of water. Insecticidal soap may be used according to label directions when additional control is needed.
Spider mites can become troublesome in hot, dry conditions or on plants grown under cover. Fine webbing, stippled leaves, and declining foliage are common signs. Increasing humidity around indoor or greenhouse plants and removing heavily affected foliage may help with management.
Scale insects and whiteflies may also affect passionflowers, particularly those grown in greenhouses or indoors. Check stems and leaf undersides regularly so infestations can be addressed before they become severe.
Common Diseases
Poor drainage and persistently wet growing conditions can contribute to root and stem problems, while some passionflowers may also be affected by fungal diseases and viruses.
Provide well-drained soil, avoid keeping roots continuously saturated, and allow adequate air circulation around the foliage. Remove severely diseased plant material when appropriate and clean pruning tools between plants. If symptoms such as persistent wilting, unusual leaf mottling, distortion, or widespread dieback appear, identify the cause before applying any treatment.
Garden and Culinary Uses
Passionflowers are grown primarily for their ornamental flowers, climbing growth, and, in selected species, edible fruit. Their uses vary considerably depending on the species or cultivar.
Ornamental Gardens
Many passionflowers are vigorous climbers that can cover trellises, fences, arbors, pergolas, and walls. Species such as Passiflora caerulea and colorful hybrids such as ‘Lady Margaret’ are particularly valued for their unusual flowers.
Tender passionflowers can also be grown in containers, making it easier to move them to a protected location during cold weather.
Edible Fruit
Several Passiflora species are cultivated for edible fruit. Passiflora edulis produces the familiar passionfruit, while P. quadrangularis, known as giant granadilla, is another fruit-producing species.
Passionfruit can be eaten fresh or used in drinks, desserts, sauces, and preserves. Because edibility varies among species, fruit should only be consumed from a positively identified species known to be edible.
Pollinator and Wildlife Gardens
Passionflowers can also be valuable additions to pollinator and butterfly gardens. Their flowers attract pollinating insects, while several Passiflora species serve as larval host plants for butterflies.
For example, Passiflora incarnata provides food for the caterpillars of Gulf fritillary, variegated fritillary, and zebra longwing butterflies, making it particularly useful in wildlife-oriented gardens.
Final Sprouts of Wisdom
Passionflowers offer remarkable variety, from the cold-tolerant maypop (Passiflora incarnata) to tropical species grown for brilliant flowers or edible fruit. With hundreds of species and numerous hybrids and cultivars, there is a Passiflora suited to many different garden styles and growing conditions.
The key is choosing a passionflower that matches your climate, available space, and intended use. Provide suitable light, well-drained soil, consistent care, and sturdy climbing support, and these distinctive vines can become an impressive feature in the garden or container display.
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