Passiflora alata seeds

The Passiflora alata, also known as winged-stemmed passionflower or wild passionfruit, is a vigorous vine with rapid growth, with a very exotic appearance. It produces abundantly large bright red flowers with a delightful fragrance, revealing a crown of white and purple filaments. The ephemeral flowers continuously renew themselves on the plant, giving way to ripe yellow fruits that are edible. Their flavor is both sweet and tangy. This botanical variety, which is not very hardy, will be cultivated in a large pot, in fertile and moist soil, and stored away in winter.

Originally from the Amazon rainforests, this red passionflower belongs to the large family of passifloraceae, which includes 400 species and numerous spontaneous or horticultural hybrids. This voluble plant clings to its support using tendrils, reaching heights of over 4m (13ft). It is characterized by its quadrangular stems adorned with finely cut oval leaves, 6 to 10 cm (2 to 4in) long, medium green, usually evergreen. Its flowering period extends from spring to autumn, with large flowers measuring 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) in diameter that constantly renew themselves on the plant. Its fragrant flowers are formed of bright red petals, with a striped white and mauve crown. The stamen center is yellow. Once pollinated, they give way to edible oval fruits, yellow when ripe, measuring 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6in) long, weighing between 9 and 300 grams. The pulp is pale orange, slightly acidic, and highly aromatic.

This frost-sensitive Passion Flower thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soil in a sunny location. Pruning at the end of flowering consists of reducing the branches to maintain a beautiful habit. It thrives in all southern regions and along the Loire River. With its height of 4 to 5m (13 to 16ft), Passiflora alata is used to adorn walls, fences, grilles, porches, and trellises. It is also highly appreciated in conservatories where it will spend the cold winters.