Common Names: maypop, passion flower, apricot vine
This exotic looking vine is grown by many for its ornamental uses only, but passion flower is a useful medicinal herb as well. "Maypop" actually describes the fruit, and one accounting for this name describes the popping sound it makes when the ripe fruit is stomped upon. Cultivation of this plant can be traced back centuries to Spanish Conquistadors, American Indians, and to Mexico and Central America. It grows wild in many southern US states as well as countries in South America, and it is widely cultivated. The name "Passion Flower" seems to be named for the similarity of the number of stamens and other characteristics of the flower to the crucifixion of Christ.
Description
This perennial vine can grow from ten to thirty feet in one season. This is a showy plant, great for a trellis or fence. The large, three-lobed, pointed leaves and tendrils are accompanied by beautiful purple and white flowers, usually about two to three inches in diameter, and great for attracting butterflies. Butterfly larvae actually feed on the fruits. Bloom time is usually spring until fall. The egg-sized passion fruit is green to yellow with a sweet taste, but very seedy.
Growing
Best climate areas to grow are USDA zones 6 or 7 to 9. Start a plant from seeds or softwood cuttings in early spring. Seed germination can be difficult, and can sometimes take up to a year. Soak seeds in warm water for 12 hours before planting. (Or, B & T World Seeds recommends soaking in passion juice or orange juice, Barbardine.com recommends warm milk.) Plant seeds in well-draining medium the depth of the seed width or a little deeper. Keep seeds at 68 degrees f or 20 degrees c until sprouted. In a protected area, prepare fertile, well-draining soil and grow in full to part sun; some state part shade is best. Keep watered regularly to encourage vine growth, and increase when the fruits are ripening. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer (5-5-5 or 10-10-10 to get a good balance of foliage, flowers and fruit. This fast growing vine will die back to the ground in the winter, returning in the spring. In the colder climates, be sure to mulch heavily to protect.
Pests
Passion flower vine pests are greater in tropical areas. Typical pests are caterpillars, thrips, snails, and parasitic nematodes.
Harvesting
Pick fruits when soft and yellow. Harvest fresh leaves as needed, or they can also be dried and stored. If seeds from the fresh fruit are planted immediately, there is a much greater rate of germination.
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