Corky Stem Passionflower
passiflora suberosa
Also known as: ["Corky-stemmed passionflower","Corkystem passionflower"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine with corky-textured stems and small, greenish-white flowers followed by small, edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora suberosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sheltered garden spot, or in a large container indoors
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely needed otherwise
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter like peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from indoors; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide shade during peak sun hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; can also propagate from seed but cuttings are more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root-bound plants.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
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 even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to water loss and heat stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are more sensitive to cyanogenic glycosides than dogs. Ingestion of Passiflora suberosa can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe cyanogenic glycosides in Passiflora suberosa can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort and mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPassiflora suberosa contains small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. The toxicity is generally mild but can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild systemic effects in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora suberosa edible?
A: The small fruits are edible and can be eaten raw or used in jams, though they are not commonly consumed.
Q: Does Passiflora suberosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and fruits.
Q: How should I care for Passiflora suberosa?
A: Provide full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering. Prune to control growth and encourage flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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