Maypop Purple Passionvine

The Maypop Purple Passionvine, also known as Passiflora incarnata, ‘Maypop,’ but is commonly referred to as the Maypop Passionflower. It is a vining perennial plant native to the southeastern United States.

The Maypop Purple Passionvine is highly regarded for its vibrant purple flowers, which are larger than those of the typical Passiflora incarnata. The flowers have a complex structure and consist of five petals, five sepals, and a distinctive arrangement of filaments and styles. The petals are usually white to light lavender in color, while the center of the flower features a crown of purple and white filaments.

This passionvine is known for its fast growth and ability to climb and cover structures like fences, trellises, or arbors. Its vigorous growth and attractive flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes. It can also serve as a larval host plant for butterflies, particularly the Gulf Fritillary.

Apart from its striking flowers, the Maypop Purple Passionvine produces edible fruits. The fruits are round and about the size of a chicken egg. When fully ripe, they have a yellowish-orange skin and contain a gelatinous pulp with a sweet and tangy flavor. These fruits are edible and can be used in various culinary applications, including juices, jellies, or eaten fresh.

The Maypop Purple Passionvine is a delightful addition to gardens, providing both visual appeal and potential fruit harvest. It is relatively easy to grow, thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The plant is also known for attracting pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, further enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.