Corky Stem Passion Flower Vine Live Plant Passiflora Suberosa Butterfly Garden Host Starter Start Size 4 Inch Pot

Passion Vines are a must-have for any romance, heirloom, and /or butterfly garden. Plants in the Passiflora genus are unique and unlike any other flowering plant. However, it is a very large genus containing between 550 to 700 separate species, as well as a large and ever-growing number of selected cultivars and hybrids. Selection depends on climate, the type of location-specific growing environment and the goals a gardener has in mind. Not all types are suited for all climates or all needs

Passiflora suberosa or Corky Stemmed Passion Flower is a species that is native to North America, specifically Florida and Texas, Central, South America, and the Caribbean. It does not offer us much as an ornamental plant aside from a green background filler and the oddity factor of the tiny, pinky-nail-sized pale green/blue flowers and pea-sized, purple fruits. However, it is simply irresistible to many butterfly species, which makes it an excellent choice for Butterfly Gardens, especially for hobbyists interested in protecting and supporting native butterfly species that reside within the native range of this passiflora species.

Medium green leaves with highly variable shapes ranging from a single oval lobe to as many as five lobes grow densely in pairs along fine, tendrilled, twisting stems. The main stalks near the ground develop a rough, corky texture as they age. Many butterfly species, such as Gulf Fritillary, Zebra Longwing, Julia Heliconian, Mexican Silverspot, and Tawny Coster, appear to prefer it as a caterpillar host plant. While the flowers are interesting up close, but nondescript otherwise, they are rich in nectar, so one of the best features of Corky Stemmed Passion Vine is that it tends to draw egg laying adult butterflies away from ornamentals that could be damaged by unchecked feeding and discourages egg laying on plants that are unsuitable hosts. The vine is tough, resilient, and can generally easily recover from aggressive feeding cycles.

Corky Stemmed Passion Flower will grow in a wide range of fertile, well-draining soils and requires little maintenance aside from the most basic needs for sufficient water and annual pruning to control size. It benefits from fertilizer applications when young and becoming established, but seldom needs it after maturity.

This passion vine is primarily used as a host plant for butterflies, so use as indoor decorative type plant is limited. However, to grow indoors, place the plant in a large container with good drainage and position it in bright, indirect light, such as near a south-facing window. A small trellis can provide necessary support. Misting the leaves can help maintain the humidity levels the plant appreciates, contributing to its overall health.

Plants in the Passiflora genus cannot be shipped to Hawaii