Red Passionflower
passiflora coccinea
Also known as: ["Scarlet Passionflower","Red Granadilla"]
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 coccinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a warm, sheltered garden or conservatory
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
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 plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions with high humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing which can harm roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering is also effective for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- 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 (75–85°F), 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 take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long vines, deadheading spent flowers, and thinning overcrowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on shaping during active growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; 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 roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil mix; 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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf burn in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move indoors; maintain warm temperatures and humidity during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering and humidity; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid dormant periods.
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 coccinea is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of toxicity to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora coccinea is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora coccinea is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora coccinea edible?
A: The fruit is technically edible but lacks flavor and is not commonly consumed.
Q: How often should I water Passiflora coccinea?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Passiflora coccinea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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