Yellow Passionflower
passiflora lutea
Also known as: ["Wild Passionflower","Yellow Wild Passionflower"]
Overview
A deciduous vine native to eastern North America, known for its small yellow flowers and unique passionflower structure.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora lutea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in partial shade, or as a ground cover in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize during active growth; dilute to prevent burn; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long, leggy stems and deadwood; shape as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape for airflow; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move to a sheltered location; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPassiflora lutea is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of any part of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora lutea is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of any part of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora lutea is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of any part of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora lutea toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to grow?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring some attention to watering and sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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