Red Passionflower
passiflora miniata
Also known as: ["Red Passion Vine","Scarlet Passionflower"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine with striking red flowers and edible but bland fruit.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora miniata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a warm, sheltered outdoor area or greenhouse
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- 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; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night can promote flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
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 peat, perlite, and sand.
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 wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
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 during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
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 size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 a cactus or succulent mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary; avoid cold windowsills.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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 miniata is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora miniata is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora miniata is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is often used ornamentally and has no known adverse effects when handled or grown in typical settings.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora miniata edible?
A: The fruit is edible but bland; the flower is not typically consumed.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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