Purple passionflowers (Passiflora incarnata)

Purple Passionflowers, also known as Maypop, Passion Vine, and Apricot Vine (and scientifically, Passiflora incarnata), are captivating perennial climbers renowned for their intricate, exotic blooms and sweet-tart, edible fruit. These fast-growing vines are native to the Southeastern United States, and are a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about these fascinating plants, from identification and propagation to medicinal uses and recipes. Keep reading to unlock the secrets of growing and utilizing these vibrant Passiflora varieties.

Botanical Description and Classification

Common name	Purple Passionflower, Maypop, Passion Vine, Apricot Vine, Wild Passion Flower
Botanical name	Passiflora incarnata
Family	Passifloraceae
Genus	Passiflora
Species	incarnata
Origin	Southeastern United States
Native	USA
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Herbaceous Vine
Hardiness zone	5, 6, 7, 8, 9 (possibly 10)
Sunlight	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Maintenance	Moderate
Water	Moderate
Drainage	Well-Drained
Spacing	2-3 ft.
Flowering period	Summer (July-September)
Height	6-25 ft. (vine length)
Growth rate	Fast
Flower color	Purple, Lavender, White
Stem color	Green, sometimes purplish
Flower benefit	Showy, Fragrant, Attracts Pollinators
Garden style	Cottage Garden, Butterfly Garden, Wildflower Garden
Uses	Ornamental, Medicinal, Edible Fruit, Trellis, Arbor, Fence
Soil pH	Slightly Acidic to Neutral (6.1-7.5)
Propagation	Seed, Cuttings, Layering, Division
Pest Resistance	Generally Good
Disease Resistance	Generally Good
Drought Tolerance	Moderate, once established
Fruit	Edible, yellowish-orange when ripe
Fruit Size	2-3 inches
Bloom Time	Summer to early Fall.

Passiflora incarnata belongs to the Passifloraceae family, a group comprising over 500 species, mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. The plant is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial vine, meaning it dies back to the ground in winter and regrows from the roots in spring. Its key characteristics include:

• Leaves: Alternate, palmate, deeply three-lobed (sometimes five-lobed), with serrated edges. The leaves are typically 3-6 inches long and wide.
• Stems: Long, slender, and slightly hairy, with tendrils that help the vine climb structures. The stems can reach lengths of up to 25 feet.
• Flowers: The most striking feature of the plant. The flowers are large (2-3 inches in diameter), complex, and showy. They consist of:
  • Sepals: Five, green on the underside and white or purplish on the upper side.
  • Petals: Five, similar in color to the sepals.
  • Corona: A fringe-like structure composed of numerous filaments, typically purple or lavender, giving the flower its distinctive appearance.
  • Reproductive Structures: Five prominent stamens with large anthers and a three-parted style with large stigmas.
• Fruit: An ovoid, fleshy berry, initially green, turning yellowish-orange when ripe. The fruit, known as a maypop, is about the size of a hen’s egg (2-3 inches long).
• Seeds: The seeds, up to 6 millimeters long, have a sculpted surface with transverse grooves or ridges.

Leaves	Alternate, palmate, deeply three-lobed (sometimes five-lobed), serrated edges
Stems	Long, slender, slightly hairy, with tendrils
Flowers	Large (2-3 inches), complex, showy; five sepals and petals; prominent purple or lavender corona; five stamens; three-parted style
Fruit (Maypop)	Ovoid, fleshy berry; initially green, turning yellowish-orange when ripe; 2-3 inches long

Historical and Cultural Significance:

• Native American Uses: Indigenous peoples of the Southeastern United States, such as the Cherokee, Houma, and others, have a long history of using Purple Passionflower for various purposes. They consumed the fruits both fresh and cooked, and utilized different parts of the plant for medicinal remedies. The roots, for example, were used to make poultices for treating boils, cuts, and earaches. Infusions of the plant were used to alleviate insomnia, anxiety, and pain.
• European Colonization and Introduction to Europe: Spanish explorers in the 16th century encountered Purple Passionflower and brought it back to Europe. The intricate flower structure was seen as symbolic of the Passion of Christ, leading to the common name “Passionflower.” The various parts of the flower were interpreted as representing elements of the crucifixion story.
• Traditional Herbal Medicine: Purple Passionflower has been incorporated into traditional herbal medicine systems in both North America and Europe. It has been used as a sedative, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and analgesic (pain-relieving) agent.
• Modern Medicinal Usage: There are several modern uses for purple passionflower, the benefits are still being explored.

Etymology of Common Names:

• Passionflower: Refers to the symbolic representation of the Passion of Christ in the flower’s structure.
• Maypop: Describes the popping sound the fruit makes when stepped on. It also refers to the fact that the fruit often ripens in May in some regions.
• Apricot Vine: Refers to the apricot-like flavor of the ripe fruit.
• Wild Passion Vine: Highlights its natural, uncultivated state.

This detailed botanical, historical, and cultural background sets the stage for a deeper understanding of Purple Passionflower’s multifaceted nature. It’s not just a beautiful plant; it’s a species with a rich past and continued relevance in various fields.

Identifying Purple Passionflowers: A Visual Guide

Accurate identification of Passiflora incarnata is crucial, especially if you plan to use it for medicinal purposes or consumption. While the flower is quite distinctive, it’s essential to differentiate it from other Passiflora species, some of which may not have the same properties or may even be toxic.

Key Distinguishing Features:

The following table summarizes the key features that distinguish Passiflora incarnata from other similar-looking species:

Feature	Passiflora incarnata (Purple Passionflower)	Other Passiflora Species (Examples)
Flower Color	White to pale lavender petals and sepals; purple or lavender corona filaments	Can range widely: red, blue, yellow, pink, etc.
Corona Filaments	Usually straight or slightly wavy	Can be curly, crimped, or have different arrangements
Leaf Shape	Deeply three-lobed (sometimes five-lobed); serrated edges	Can have different lobe numbers (e.g., unlobed, two-lobed) or different edge shapes
Fruit Shape	Ovoid, 2-3 inches long	Can be round, elongated, or have different sizes
Fruit Color	Green when unripe, turning yellowish-orange when ripe	Can be purple, red, yellow, or other colors when ripe
Native Range	Southeastern United States	Found in various tropical and subtropical regions worldwide
Hardiness	Hardy to USDA Zones 5-9 (or 6-10)	Varies widely depending on the species; some are very frost-sensitive

Detailed Visual Breakdown:

1. Flowers: The flower is the most reliable identification feature. Look closely at the corona. In Passiflora incarnata, the corona filaments are typically straight or only slightly wavy, and they are arranged in several distinct rows. The color is usually a rich purple or lavender, contrasting with the white or pale lavender petals and sepals. Other species might have corona filaments that are intensely curled, crimped, or have a different color pattern.
2. Leaves: The leaves are palmate and deeply three-lobed, resembling a hand with three fingers. While some other Passiflora species also have three-lobed leaves, the depth of the lobes and the serrated (toothed) edges are important characteristics. Some species might have unlobed leaves, or leaves with only two lobes.
3. Fruit: The fruit, the maypop, is ovoid (egg-shaped) and relatively large (2-3 inches long). The color transition from green to yellowish-orange as it ripens is a key indicator. Other Passiflora species can have fruits that are different shapes (round, elongated), sizes, and colors (purple, red, yellow).
4. Growth Habit: Passiflora incarnata is a herbaceous perennial vine. It dies back to the ground in winter and regrows from the roots in spring. This is different from some tropical Passiflora species, which are evergreen and can become quite woody.
5. Native Range: Knowing the plant’s origin can be helpful. If you are in the Southeastern United States, and the plant matches the above characteristics, it is highly likely to be Passiflora incarnata.

Potential Look-Alikes and How to Distinguish Them:

• Passiflora caerulea (Blue Passionflower): This species has blue and white flowers, and the corona filaments are often more distinctly banded with blue, white, and purple. The leaves are typically five-lobed.
• Passiflora lutea (Yellow Passionflower): This species has much smaller, yellowish-green flowers, and the leaves are usually less deeply lobed.
• Passiflora edulis (Purple Granadilla or Passion Fruit): This is the species cultivated for commercial passion fruit. The flowers are similar to P. incarnata, but the fruit is typically purple (though there’s also a yellow variety) and the leaves are often larger and more robust. This species is also much less cold-hardy.

Important Note: If you are unsure about the identification of a Passiflora plant, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not consume it or use it medicinally. Consult with a local botanist, herbalist, or extension service for expert identification. Taking a clear photograph of the flower, leaves, and fruit can greatly aid in the identification process.

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The Medicinal Uses of Purple Passionflower: Benefits and Research

Purple Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and modern scientific research is beginning to validate many of its purported benefits. This section explores the evidence-based medicinal uses, the active compounds responsible, and important safety considerations.

Traditional Medicinal Uses:

Historically, Purple Passionflower has been used by Native American tribes and in traditional herbal medicine for a variety of ailments, including:

• Insomnia: As a sleep aid, often used to promote relaxation and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
• Anxiety: To calm the nervous system and reduce symptoms of anxiety, nervousness, and restlessness.
• Pain Relief: As a mild analgesic, used for headaches, muscle pain, and menstrual cramps.
• Nervous Disorders: To treat conditions like neuralgia (nerve pain) and shingles.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Sometimes used to relieve minor stomach upset and digestive problems.
• Topical Applications: The crushed leaves and roots were used externally to treat boils, cuts, and inflammation.

Active Compounds and Their Mechanisms:

The medicinal properties of Purple Passionflower are attributed to a complex mixture of bioactive compounds, primarily:

• Flavonoids: These are plant pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Key flavonoids in Passiflora incarnata include:
  • Chrysin: This is often considered to help reduce anxiety.
  • Vitexin: Research into vitexin shows that it has potential as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotectant.
  • Isovitexin: Similar to vitexin, with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Orientin and Isoorientin: Other flavonoids with potential health benefits.
• Alkaloids: These are nitrogen-containing compounds that can have a variety of effects on the body. Passiflora incarnata contains small amounts of harmala alkaloids, such as harman, harmaline, and harmalol. These alkaloids are present in much higher concentrations in other plants, like Banisteriopsis caapi (used in ayahuasca). At the low levels found in Purple Passionflower, they may contribute to the plant’s sedative effects, but the exact mechanisms are still under investigation.
• Maltol and Ethyl Maltol: These compounds contribute to the plant’s flavor and aroma, and they may also have some sedative properties.

Scientific Evidence and Research:

While more research is needed, several studies have investigated the medicinal properties of Purple Passionflower:

• Anxiety: A 2001 double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that Passiflora incarnata extract was as effective as oxazepam (a benzodiazepine drug) in treating generalized anxiety disorder, with fewer side effects.
• Insomnia: A 2011 double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that a low dose of Passiflora incarnata tea improved sleep quality in adults with mild sleep disturbances.
• ADHD: Some preliminary research suggests that Purple Passionflower may be helpful in managing symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but more studies are needed.
• Opiate Withdrawal: A 2001 clinical trial published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that Passiflora incarnata extract, combined with clonidine, reduced the physical symptoms of opiate withdrawal.

Important Considerations and Safety:

• Dosage: The appropriate dosage of Purple Passionflower varies depending on the form (tea, tincture, extract, capsule) and the individual’s needs. It’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed, following the instructions on the product label or the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Side Effects: Purple Passionflower is generally considered safe for most adults when used appropriately. However, some people may experience mild side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion.
• Interactions: Purple Passionflower may interact with certain medications, including:
  • Sedatives and Anxiolytics: It can potentiate the effects of these drugs, leading to excessive drowsiness.
  • MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors): Although the harmala alkaloid content is low, there is a theoretical risk of interaction with MAOIs, so caution is advised.
  • Anticoagulants: Purple Passionflower may have mild blood-thinning effects, so it should be used with caution if you are taking blood thinners.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Purple Passionflower is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data.
• Children: Purple Passionflower should not be given to children without the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Forms of Medicinal Use:

• Tea: Made by steeping dried leaves and flowers in hot water.
• Tincture: A concentrated liquid extract made with alcohol or glycerin.
• Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts of Purple Passionflower are available in capsule or tablet form.
• Liquid Extract: Similar to a tincture, but may use different solvents.

Always choose high-quality products from reputable sources to ensure purity and potency. Gardencenterpoint.com recommends researching suppliers and reading reviews before purchasing Passiflora incarnata products.

Growing Purple Passionflowers: A Comprehensive Horticultural Guide

Purple Passionflowers are relatively easy to grow, making them a rewarding addition to home gardens. This section provides a complete guide to cultivating these beautiful vines, covering everything from site selection and planting to ongoing care and propagation.

Ideal Growing Conditions:

• Hardiness Zones: Purple Passionflowers are hardy in USDA Zones 5-9 (some sources suggest 6-10), indicating their tolerance for a range of temperatures. They are perennial in these zones, dying back to the ground in winter and regrowing in spring.
• Sunlight: They thrive in full sun to partial shade. Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) is ideal for abundant flowering and fruit production. However, they can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. They can tolerate a variety of soil types (sandy, loamy, clay), but they prefer a moderately fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.1-7.5). If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
• Water: They are moderately drought-tolerant once established, but they benefit from regular watering, especially during dry periods. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
• Support: As climbing vines, they need a support structure to grow on, such as a trellis, fence, arbor, or pergola. The support should be sturdy enough to handle the weight of the mature vine.

Planting Purple Passionflowers:

• Timing: The best time to plant Purple Passionflowers is in the spring after the last frost, or in the fall in mild climates.
• From Seed:
  1. Scarification: The seeds have a hard coat that needs to be scarified (nicked or scratched) to improve germination. Use sandpaper, a nail file, or a knife to gently break the seed coat.
  2. Soaking: Soak the scarified seeds in warm water for 24-48 hours.
  3. Sowing: Sow the seeds about ¼ inch deep in a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm (around 70-75°F). Germination can take several weeks to several months, so be patient.
  4. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions before planting them in the garden.
• From Cuttings:
  1. Taking Cuttings: Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer.
  2. Rooting Hormone: Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder (optional, but helpful).
  3. Planting: Insert the cuttings into a well-draining rooting medium, such as a mix of perlite and peat moss. Keep the medium moist and humid.
  4. Rooting: Roots should develop within a few weeks. Once rooted, transplant the cuttings into individual pots.
• From Nursery Plants: This is the easiest and fastest way to get started. Choose healthy plants with well-developed root systems.
• Planting Procedure (for both seedlings and nursery plants):
  1. Dig a Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  2. Amend the Soil: If needed, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter.
  3. Place the Plant: Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
  4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots.
  5. Water: Water thoroughly after planting.
  6. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as wood chips or shredded bark) around the base of the plant to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Ongoing Care:

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Fertilizing: Purple Passionflowers are not heavy feeders. A light application of a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) in the spring is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. A compost tea or organic fertilizer is a good alternative.
• Pruning: Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of the vine and to encourage flowering.
  • Early Spring: Prune back the previous year’s growth to about 6-12 inches from the ground. This will encourage new growth and abundant flowering.
  • Throughout the Growing Season: Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. You can also pinch back the tips of new growth to promote bushier growth.
• Pest and Disease Control: Purple Passionflowers are relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, they can sometimes be affected by:
  • Gulf Fritillary and Other Butterflies: The larvae (caterpillars) of several butterfly species, including the Gulf Fritillary, Zebra Longwing, and Julia, feed on Passiflora leaves. This is generally not a serious problem, as the plants can tolerate some defoliation. In fact, many gardeners welcome these butterflies, as they are beautiful and important pollinators. If the infestation is severe, you can handpick the caterpillars or use a biological insecticide like Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
  • Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity and water regularly to prevent infestations. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control severe infestations.
  • Fungal Diseases: Leaf spot and other fungal diseases can occur in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent these problems. If necessary, use a fungicide labeled for use on Passiflora.

Propagation:

In addition to seeds and cuttings (described above), Purple Passionflowers can also be propagated by:

• Layering: Bend a low-growing stem to the ground and cover a portion of it with soil. Keep the soil moist. Roots will develop at the buried nodes. Once rooted, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant.
• Division: In the spring, carefully dig up the root system and divide it into sections, making sure each section has roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately.

Harvesting and Using the Fruit (Maypops):

• Harvesting: The maypops are ready to harvest when they turn from green to yellowish-orange and become slightly soft to the touch. They may also fall from the vine when ripe.
• Eating: The ripe fruit has a sweet-tart flavor, often described as similar to apricot or guava. The pulp and seeds are edible. You can eat them fresh, or use them to make juice, jelly, jam, or other preserves.
• Caution: Unripe maypops are not palatable and may cause stomach upset.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow and enjoy the beauty and benefits of Purple Passionflowers in your garden.

Commercial Aspects of Purple Passionflower: Products and Sourcing

The increasing interest in natural remedies and herbal supplements has boosted the commercial availability of Passiflora incarnata products. This section explores the various forms in which you can find Purple Passionflower, where to source them, and what to look for in terms of quality and sustainability.

Forms of Commercially Available Purple Passionflower:

• Dried Herb: This is the most common form, consisting of dried leaves, flowers, and sometimes stems. It is used to make teas, tinctures, and other preparations.
• Liquid Extracts: These are concentrated extracts of the plant, typically made with alcohol (tinctures) or glycerin. They offer a more potent and convenient way to consume Purple Passionflower.
• Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts of Purple Passionflower are available in capsule or tablet form. These provide a consistent dosage of the active compounds.
• Teas: Pre-packaged tea bags containing dried Purple Passionflower, often blended with other herbs like chamomile or valerian, are widely available.
• Essential Oil: Although less common, Purple Passionflower essential oil is sometimes available. It is used in aromatherapy and for topical applications (diluted in a carrier oil).
• Fresh Plants: Some nurseries and online retailers sell live Purple Passionflower plants, allowing you to grow your own.
• Seeds: Seeds are readily available online and from seed companies, enabling you to propagate the plant from scratch.
• Maypop Products: Some places may sell Maypop products that can include:
  • Juices
  • Jellies
  • Jams
  • Preserves

Sourcing Purple Passionflower Products:

• Health Food Stores: Local health food stores and natural product retailers often carry a variety of Purple Passionflower products.
• Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in herbs, supplements, and natural remedies. These can offer a wider selection and competitive prices. Examples include Amazon, Mountain Rose Herbs, and Starwest Botanicals.
• Pharmacies: Some pharmacies, especially those with a focus on natural remedies, may carry Purple Passionflower supplements.
• Nurseries and Garden Centers: For live plants and seeds, visit local nurseries and garden centers, or browse online plant retailers.
• Direct from Growers/Producers: Inquire directly from producers of maypop products, or passionflower farmers.

Quality and Sustainability Considerations:

• Organic Certification: Look for products that are certified organic by a reputable organization (such as the USDA Organic seal). This ensures that the plant was grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
• Sustainable Harvesting: If the product is made from wild-harvested plants, ensure that the supplier follows sustainable harvesting practices to avoid over-collection and damage to wild populations.
• Third-Party Testing: Some companies have their products tested by independent laboratories to verify their purity, potency, and the absence of contaminants. Look for products with third-party testing certifications.
• Country of Origin: Consider the country of origin of the Purple Passionflower. Products sourced from regions with strong agricultural regulations and quality control standards may be preferable.
• Reputable Brands: Choose products from reputable brands with a good track record and positive customer reviews.
• Packaging: Look for products that are packaged to maintain freshness and minimize exposure to light and air.

Pricing:

The price of Purple Passionflower products varies widely depending on the form, quality, brand, and source. Dried herb is generally the least expensive, while standardized extracts and essential oil are more costly. Expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars for a small amount of dried herb to $20 or more for a bottle of high-quality extract. Seeds and live plants are also priced variably, depending on the size and source.

Gardencenterpoint.com encourages consumers to do their research, compare prices, and read reviews before purchasing Purple Passionflower products. Prioritizing quality and sustainability ensures that you are getting a safe and effective product while supporting responsible practices.