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.
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