Passiflora incarnata is an exception in that it is deciduous, can survive winter freezes and is commonly called maypop as well as passion flower.
Maypop is a fast growing perennial vine that employs tendrils to grab hold of adjacent shrubs, structure and other supports to lift itself to heights of 8-12 ft . The large serrated leaves grow 5-6 in wide by 6 to 8 in long. They typically have three to five lobes and are arranged alternately on the stem with flowers and branches emerging from the axil (the base of the leaf stem where it attaches).
All of the passion flowers have beautifully complex blossoms and maypop is no exception. These have 2-3 in diameters and are composed of 10 white tepals arranged in a shallow bowl shape above which is arranged fringe of purple and white filaments, called the corona. In the center is the white fleshy stigma surrounded by five stamens.
Maypop is native to southeastern United States and is often seen growing on the edges of fields, along side ditches and other sunny, moist and fertile places.
Light: Full to part sun.
Moisture: Light, evenly moist soil; mulch well.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 6-9. Dies back to ground in winter but recovers in spring.
Sowing instructions:
Sow in trays, pots, etc of good seed compost in a propagator or warm place to maintain an optimum temperature of 70-40-70F . Sowing Depth: ¼in . Germination can be slow. Seal the seed container after sowing in a polythene bag and place in a temperature of 70F for 3 months. Keep compost moist but not over wet. If germination does not occur by the end of this time, transfer to a fridge (Not freezer) for 3-5 months. At the end of this period return to 70F when germination should occur in around 3 months
