Red Passionflower
passiflora vitifolia
Also known as: ["Cuban Passionflower","Grapeleaf Passionflower"]
Overview
A tropical vine with striking red flowers and edible fruits, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora vitifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sheltered, sunny garden spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak summer heat; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid compacted soil, top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; use a thermometer to monitor conditions; group plants to create microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply 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 (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to allow light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, inspect roots, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use a soil mix designed for tropical plants.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud abortion in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost with a cover.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased water demand in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPassiflora vitifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause toxicity in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora vitifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause toxicity in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora vitifolia is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora vitifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Passiflora vitifolia require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Are the fruits of Passiflora vitifolia edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and have a sweet, tangy flavor.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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