Passiflora subpeltata

The Passiflora subpeltata is a botanical variety endemic to the tropical forests of Brazil. This beautiful vigorous climber offers from spring to autumn numerous flowers with delicate rounded and elegant white petals, topped with a collar of pure white filaments and small tender yellow to purple stamens. This species forms a 4 to 6 m (13 to 20ft) tall plant on average, cultivated in a large terrace pot or a veranda and brought indoors when temperatures drop below a maximum of -2°C (28.4°F).

Mostly originating from tropical areas of South America, passionflowers belong to the large family of Passifloraceae, which includes 400 species and numerous spontaneous or horticultural hybrids.

The Passiflora subpeltata is a species native to the tropical forests of Brazil but can be found naturalised in many places around the world, including Australia, where it is considered invasive. This voluble plant clings to its support with tendrils, reaching an average height of 4 to 6 m (13 to 20ft). Its long stems are adorned with glabrous trilobed leaves, more or less evergreen, with a medium green colour on the upper side and slightly bluish on the underside. Its flowering extends from July to early autumn in the form of medium-sized flowers that constantly repeat on the plant. Its lightly scented flowers are formed by white sepals and petals. These are delicately topped with a crown of pure white filaments and yellow to purple stamens.

This Passion Flower is not a capricious and difficult plant to cultivate like some orchids. It grows easily in any well-drained, light, deep soil that is not too dry in summer and blooms generously in the sun in a sheltered location. At the end of flowering, pruning consists of reducing the branches to maintain a beautiful habit. With its compact habit, the Passiflora subpeltata will be greatly appreciated in verandas or greenhouses where it will withstand cold winters without damage.