Description

General aspect and origins - Passiflora caerulea, also known as the blue passionflower, is one of the most widely cultivated species of Passiflora. It can easily be explained by both its ornemental features and good frost hardiness : This semi-evergreen to evergreen vine has white and purple-blue scented flowers, and bright orange fruits.
Leaves - The blue passionflower has glossy leaves that are usually palmately lobed (= with five lobes), but that also can be 3, 7 or 9-lobed. Depending on the zone where this vine is grown, the leaves are semi-evergreen to evergreen. It will begin to defoliate in the low twenties. (-5°C to -7°C)
Flowers - This vine has showy white and purple-blue scented flowers, that are 3 to 4 in (8 - 10 cm) wide. The petals and sepals of this species are generally white, while the corona is white and purple-blue. There are varieties, like Passiflora caerulea 'Constance Eliott', that have pure white fragrant flowers. In tropical climates, the blue passionflower will bloom all the year long.
Moreover, these flowers are generally not self-fertile, and will need other blue passionflower vines around to be cross-pollinated. However, a few vines may be self-fertile.
Fruits - Passiflora caerulea has bright orange fruits, that are ovoid, about 3 in (7.5 cm) long and are theoretically edible. In fact, they are rather bland-flavored. A few recipes were made with these fruits, but nothing unforgettable.

Culture

Soil - The blue passionflowers, as most other Passiflora, needs a well-drained ground.

Propagation

The blue passionflower can easily be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Air layering is also possible.
The blue passionflower seeds keep their germinative properties for a few months (even for one year and more), but the use of fresh seeds will lead to better results.

Pests and diseases

As many passionflowers, this vine is susceptible to various viral diseases. Before and after pruning the vine, it is advised to clean the pruning tools so as to avoid any disease propagation.