Passiflora Exoniensis- Passion Flower

The Passiflora x exoniensis is a beautiful hybrid passionflower obtained in England in Exeter in the Devon region. This variety probably results from cross-breeding between two botanical species called Passiflora antioquiensis and P. tripartita var. mollissima. It is characterized by vigorous growth and large pink-red flowers hanging from long peduncles, as unusual as they are decorative. Not very hardy, this passionflower can only be grown in the ground in our mildest regions in winter. Elsewhere, it will make a very beautiful greenhouse or conservatory plant.

Mostly native to tropical areas of South America, passionflowers belong to the large family of Passifloraceae, which includes 400 species and numerous spontaneous or horticultural hybrids. The Passiflora x exoniensis is a beautiful hybrid that received an Award of Garden Merit (A.G.M) from the RHS in England. Its first parent, the Passiflora antioquiensis, is native to Colombia. The second, P. tripartita var. mollissima, grows in Andean valleys from Venezuela to Bolivia.

The Exoniensis passionflower is a voluble plant that clings to its support with tendrils, reaching heights of 5 or 6m (16 or 20ft) under favourable conditions. When grown in a container, it will remain smaller in size. Its long stems bear very large luxuriant leaves, usually divided into 3 elongated lobes, but sometimes entire. It is not uncommon for juvenile foliage to differ from adult foliage. These leaves remain evergreen in winter if the plant is kept frost-free. Its flowering occurs in summer. It is made up of 10-12cm (4-5in) flowers, spectacular, hanging from peduncles that can measure up to 22cm (9in). Each flower consists of a long tube dividing into 10 very bright pink-red petals. The centre of the flower, marked with a violet circle, is occupied by 5 sterile stamens (lacking pollen) and 3 united styles at the base, white-green. Once pollinated by those of another passionflower, the flowers give way to ovoid fruits that are light yellow when ripe, edible and delicious. The well-protected stump of this passionflower will withstand brief frosts of around -4°C (24.8°F).

This Exoniensis Passionflower grows in rich, fresh, well-drained soil in partial shade or slightly sunny positions. Pruning at the end of flowering involves reducing the branches to maintain a beautiful habit. It thrives in very mild climates in winter, not too hot and not too dry in summer. With its height of 5m (16ft), this climbing plant dresses walls, fences, trellises, porches, and lattices. Elsewhere, it will be appreciated in an unheated greenhouse or conservatory where it will spend the winter.