What could evoke the feeling of an “indoor jungle” better than a tropical, flowering vine?  Exotic-looking and sometimes even fragrant, the Passion Flower can be grown indoors to create a dramatic, romantic display. 

Passiflora Incarnata, also known as the Maypop, is native to the southeastern United States where it grows wild along roadsides, ditches, and open fields.  Stories vary on how the flower got its name, but it’s said to represent the crucifixion of Christ, also referred to as the Passion.  

Though Passiflora is usually grown outside, hardy in zones 5 through 9, it’s also happy inside the home if given the right conditions.   The most difficult part of caring for this plant may be dealing with its tall, vining habit.  You’ll need a sizeable trellis, hoop, or netting, because it can grow to lengths of six feet or more.  In return, you’ll see its large showy flowers that appear sometime between spring and early fall.  

The variety most commonly grown indoors is the blue Passion Flower, Passiflora caerulea.  Other varieties are grown too, including Passiflora x alato-caerulea, which has a lovely fragrance.    

emperature:  Prefers cool air, between 55-65 degrees F. 

Light:  Bright, but not direct light 

Water:  Keep evenly moist during spring and summer, reduce water in autumn and winter months 

Re-potting:  Top-dress by removing the top 2 inches of soil and replacing it each spring.  Repot, if absolutely necessary, in late winter or early spring.  Let plant recover in a shady area for a week before placing it back in the sun. 

Pruning:  Cut back each spring 

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