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Vine

Passiflora Caerulea

Passiflora caerulea

Blue Passion FlowerCommon Passion VineBlue Crown Passion FlowerHardy Passion Vine

Passiflora caerulea produces intricate blue and white flowers with elaborate corona filaments. It symbolizes faith, passion, and the sacred mysteries of life.

Plant Family

Passifloraceae (Passion Vine family)

Blooming

Summer to fall (June-October), continuous blooming in warm weather

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Intricate Passiflora caerulea blue passion flower with elaborate corona
Intricate Passiflora caerulea blue passion flower with elaborate corona

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Faith
Passion
Sacred mysteries
Spiritual suffering
Divine love
Resurrection
Religious devotion

Perfect For

Religious ceremoniesSpiritual meditationExpressions of deep faithSacred gardens

Color Meanings

Blue:Heavenly love, spiritual devotion, divine truth
White:Pure faith, spiritual purity, divine grace
Purple:Royal devotion, spiritual nobility, sacred mystery
Pink:Gentle faith, loving devotion, tender passion

Similar flowers: asters and hibiscuss also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Named by Spanish missionaries who saw Christian symbolism in the flower: the corona represents the crown of thorns, five petals and sepals represent the ten apostles (excluding Peter and Judas), and the three stigma represent the nails of crucifixion. Represents the Passion of Christ.
Related cultural flowers:Rose, Strawberry

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 3-4 inches diameter (8-10 cm), complex layered structure
Plant Size: 15-30 feet long (4.5-9 meters), vigorous climbing vine
Flower Shape: Complex radial symmetry with five petals, five sepals, and elaborate corona of filaments

Natural Habitat

Native to: South America, Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay
Habitat: Gardens, fences, trellises, naturalized areas, coastal regions
Climate: Temperate, Mediterranean, Subtropical

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade (minimum 6 hours direct sunlight)

Water

Moderate to high water needs, drought tolerant once established

Soil

Well-draining, Rich organic matter, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5)

Expert Growing Tips

1

Provide sturdy support for vigorous climbing growth

2

Prune in late winter to control size and encourage flowering

3

Protect from harsh winds that can damage stems

4

May be semi-evergreen in mild climates

5

Can be invasive in ideal conditions - monitor spread

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Climbing on fences, trellises, and pergolas
  • Fast-growing screening and privacy
  • Butterfly and wildlife gardens
  • Mediterranean and cottage gardens
  • Container growing with support

Traditional Uses

  • Traditional use for anxiety and insomnia (passionflower tea)
  • Contains chrysin and other flavonoids with calming properties
  • Used in herbal medicine for nervous tension
  • Modern research into anxiety and sleep disorders

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Passiflora Caerulea

why is it called passion flower?

It's called passion flower because Spanish missionaries saw Christian symbolism in the flower parts, representing the Passion (suffering) of Christ during crucifixion.

is passiflora caerulea hardy?

Yes, Passiflora caerulea is one of the hardiest passion vines, tolerating temperatures down to about 5°F (-15°C) with protection in USDA zones 6-10.

what does blue passion flower symbolize?

Blue passion flower symbolizes faith, spiritual devotion, and sacred mysteries. It represents divine love and the complex nature of spiritual suffering and resurrection.

does passiflora caerulea produce fruit?

Yes, Passiflora caerulea produces orange egg-shaped fruits that are edible but not very flavorful compared to tropical passion fruits.

Available Colors

Blue
White
Purple
Pink

Quick Facts

Type:vine
Family:Passifloraceae (Passion Vine family)
Native to:South America
Blooms:Summer to fall (June-October), continuous blooming in warm weather

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