Exploring Florida’s Natives: Passion Flower

Passion flowers (Passiflora incarnata), commonly known as maypop, are cherished for their stunningly intricate blooms and their vital role in Florida’s native ecosystems. This vigorous native vine is a feast for the senses, showcasing an array of exotic flowers that beckon a range of native pollinators, intertwining beauty with ecological importance.

Purple passion flower, *Passiflora incarnate.* Photo by Vic Ramey @2002 University of Florida.

Origins of the Passion Flower

The captivating purple passion flower, captured in a striking photograph by Vic Ramey, is emblematic of this species. The Passiflora genus boasts over 500 variations, predominantly hailing from the tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America. For generations, Indigenous communities, such as the Cherokee, harnessed the plant’s potential; they brewed teas from the roots to alleviate ailments like skin irritations and earaches, as well as to assist in weaning infants. In the 16th century, Spanish missionaries bestowed upon it the name “passion flower”. Thriving in warm, temperate climates, this species is perfectly adapted to open, sunny environments—including fields, roadsides, thickets, and previously disturbed lands. Among its relatives, Passiflora incarnata is notable for being one of the hardiest members of the genus, tolerating winter temperatures in regions as far north as USDA zone 7B.

Growing Conditions and Characteristics

The maypop vine, adorned with its spectacular blooms, offers a striking spectacle in any garden. This perennial flowering vine flourishes in Florida, making it a resilient choice for a variety of landscapes. With its tendril-climbing nature, the vine scales any structure in its path, reaching impressive sizes when given the opportunity. However, due to its vigorous growth habit, it’s wise to plant it in spaces where it can sprawl freely. Should the plant become unruly, a robust pruning can help rein in its enthusiasm. The vibrant blooms, featuring lavender to deep purple petals and a unique fringe-like corona, can reach up to 5 inches in diameter, adding a touch of drama to any garden setting. The alternate, ovate leaves remain evergreen and typically measure between 4 to 9 inches long.

While the flowers are fleeting, blooming throughout the summer and fall for just a single day each, they serve as a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies, attracting these delightful pollinators to their vibrant allure. Following the bloom, the plant produces ovoid green fruits that are indeed edible, though they are often described as lacking in flavor. If your attempts to grow these stunning flowers in full sun have fallen flat, consider planting them from seed in a shaded area. Observing their natural growth in the wild, maypops typically find their way into the shelter of dense underbrush, thriving in more protected, shaded environments. Additionally, this resilient plant exhibits drought tolerance and is naturally resistant to pests, making it a relatively low-maintenance choice; however, it can occasionally fall prey to nematodes. Read how to use marigolds for nematodes.

Maypop vine and flower. Photo credit Julia Sirchia UF/IFAS.

Why Plant Native Species?

Native species typically require less water and maintenance compared to non-native plants, making them more sustainable choices for landscaping. It’s important to note that while Passiflora incarnata is native to Florida, other species like Passiflora foetida are non-native and can be invasive in certain areas. Passiflora biflora is a Category II species on the FLEPPC 2011 List of Invasive Plant Species.

Unlike some ornamental vines, the native passionflower is well adapted to Florida’s conditions and requires less care. Passion flower is a larval host plant for several butterfly species, including the Gulf fritillary, zebra longwing (Florida’s state butterfly), and Julia heliconian. By planting passion flower, gardeners support local wildlife and promote biodiversity.

Florida’s state butterfly. “Zebra Longwing Butterfly” by wwarby is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Have a question?

If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/. Supervising Agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore

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Featured Image: Mary Vaux Walcott, Maypop (Passiflora incarnata), 1926, watercolor on paper, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1970.355.661 “<div class=’fn’> Maypop (Passiflora incarnata)</div>” by Mary Vaux Walcott is marked with CC0 1.0.