Maypop
passiflora incarnata
Also known as: ["Passionflower","Passion vine"]
Overview
A fast-growing, climbing vine native to the southeastern United States, known for its intricate, fragrant flowers and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora incarnata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor trellis or fence in temperate gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- 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; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if plant is overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); prefers mild winters; can tolerate brief frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F/21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Control growth, encourage bushier habit, remove dead or weak stems, improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
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 vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
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.
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; 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, may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move containers indoors; use row covers for outdoor plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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 incarnata is not considered toxic to cats. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's natural compounds and fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora incarnata is not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's natural compounds and fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora incarnata, commonly known as maypop, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of its parts, particularly the fruit, may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic, but excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora incarnata edible?
A: Yes, the fruits (maypops) are edible and can be used in jams or eaten fresh.
Q: Does Passiflora incarnata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and fruits.
Q: Is Passiflora incarnata invasive?
A: It can be aggressive in favorable conditions but is not typically considered invasive in its native range.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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