Scarlet Passion Flower

passiflora manicata

Also known as: ["Andean Passion Flower","Red Passion Flower"]

Family: Passifloraceae Genus: Passiflora Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, climbing vine with striking scarlet-red flowers and edible but bland fruit.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Passifloraceae
Genus: Passiflora
Botanical Name: Passiflora manicata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: trellised or supported structure in a sheltered garden area
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct sun but acclimate gradually.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; test pH annually; amend with organic matter every year.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.

Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate; adjust watering with temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to phosphorus-rich formula for flowering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with nodes; air layering for larger plants.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below node.
  3. Apply hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use stems with visible buds; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems to shape plant and remove weak or damaged growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage flowering and air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove crossing branches; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; add fresh soil mix; ensure drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for vigorous growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the roots without splashing leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if outdoors; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse container after use.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Passiflora manicata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs or aphids, which disrupt chlorophyll production and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Passiflora manicata can be caused by water stress, either from drought or overwatering leading to root rot, or by pest infestations that damage the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Passiflora manicata are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Passiflora manicata is often due to overwatering or poor drainage, leading to fungal infections that cause decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Passiflora manicata is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While non-toxic, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Monitor your pet if they consume any part of the plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Passiflora manicata is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While non-toxic, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Monitor your pet if they consume any part of the plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Passiflora manicata, commonly known as the Andean passionflower, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its calming properties, and no significant toxic effects have been reported from its consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While generally safe, it is advisable to consume in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Passiflora manicata edible?

A: The fruit is technically edible but lacks flavor and is rarely consumed.

Q: How do I care for Passiflora manicata?

A: Provide full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and support for climbing. Water moderately and prune to control growth.

Q: Does Passiflora manicata attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Passifloraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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