Meaning of the Passion Flower

Passiflora L., known simply as passionflower, is the first name on the USDA's list. It grows in 16 states that form the bottom three-fifths of the country. Most references to the plant break its name into words: "passion flower."

Religious Symbolism
The florists at Arena Flowers note that separate parts of the passion flower symbolize the suffering---that is the passion---of Jesus Christ. The center threads form the crown of thorns, the tendrils recall whips with which he was scourged and pointed leaves suggest spears.

Additional Ideas
The florists assert that the passion flower "is associated with faith, holy love, religious fervour and superstition." A white passion flower stands for piety. The more common blue variety denotes heaven.

Uses
Passion flowers are often included in floral bouquets. In that setting, they symbolize the feeling of being in love. They are typically used in Valentine's Day and wedding arrangements.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/facts_6822896_meaning-passion-flower.html

What Is Passion Flower?

Passiflora, or passion flower, is a family of flowering plants. The large decorative flowers grow on vines and shrubs. Butterflies and hummingbirds are drawn to the aromatic blooms. The passion flower comes in hundreds of varieties, natural and hybrid, and grows in most regions of the world.

Flowers
The plant is called the clock flower in some countries because the large open flowers look like clock faces.

Fruit
The seedy fruit of the passion flower is two to eight inches long depending on variety and is edible.


Leaves
Passiflora leaves are made into tea that is used for treating insomnia and other ailments in some cultures.

Vines

Woody vines supporting the passion flower can grow 15 feet in one season. The plant is excellent for covering a fence or old shed with greenery and colorful flowers.

Cultivation
Passion flower is easy to grow and is called Maypop in some areas because it pops out of the ground so quickly in spring.

Caution
Some passion flowers are invasive in temperate climates and choke out native vegetation.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/facts_5101698_passion-flower.html