Botanical Classification :
The genus Passiflora includes over 500 metal money of blossom plant , commonly known as passion flower , passion vines , or Passion of Christ yield . They are illustrious for their complex , often stunning , flowered structure .
The name “ Passiflora ” was cave in by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century , who take in in the blossom ’s unique structure symbols of the Passion of Christ . The radial corona was likened to the jacket crown of thorns , the five stamen to the five wound , and other parts to various element of the crucifixion story .
autochthonal peoples in the Americas used various Passiflora species for food , medicine , and rituals long before European tangency . The passion yield , from certain species , was consumed for its nutritional value , while role of the plant were used for their tranquillizing effects .
After their intromission to Europe , cacoethes flowers quickly became pop as ornamental plants due to their exotic beauty . Over time , they were cultivate around the world in suitable climates , not just for their flower but also for the edible fruit of some species .
Today , passion flowers are apprise both for their decorative value and the edible fruits bring on by some species . They ’re also consider for potential medicinal uses , particularly for their calm effect .
The genus Passiflora is aboriginal in the main to South America , with the majority of species start in Brazil , but they are also retrieve in North America , Central America , and part of Asia and Australia , indicating a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical regions . Many coinage arise in the wild in moist , forested areas , often climbing over trees or shrub or sprawling across the primer in the understory where they can have filtered sunshine .
Passiflora species can be found from sea level up to 3,000 beat in their native habitats , showcasing their adaptability to dissimilar ecological niches within tropical and subtropical zone . They prefer well - enfeeble , rich grime but can adapt to various conditions , from rich loam to arenaceous or rocky substratum , as long as they ’re not waterlogged .
Most Passiflora are vigorous climbers , using tendril to uprise trees or other supports , though some species can also grow as shrubs or ground covers . Their climbing nature allows them to reach for the sparkle in dense forest environments .
In their natural habitats , love blossom run substantial persona in ecosystems . They are pollinated by a mixture of louse , admit specialized bees , and some metal money have co - evolve with specific pollinators . Their fruits are consumed by birds and mammals , aid in seed dispersion .
Outside their native range , some Passiflora species , like P. caerulea , have become invasive , outcompeting local plant due to their rapid outgrowth and ability to procreate both sexually and vegetatively .
Characteristics
USDA Zones
Cultivation
Passion Flower Benefits
Medicinal Benefits :
Culinary Benefits
