An ornamental evergreen to semi-deciduous climber bearing intricate blue-and-white flowers with a striking filament crown, followed by ornamental orange fruit. Hardier than the edible passionfruit but prone to suckering.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 8 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Blue Passionflower
Botanically, Passiflora caerulea is a fast-growing climber in the Passifloraceae family. It reaches around 8 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with semi-deciduous foliage. Blue and white flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Blue Passionflower
Blue Passionflower suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Blue Passionflower does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 2.4 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Blue Passionflower does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Blue Passionflower after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Expect a moderate maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Blue Passionflower in the garden
Blue Passionflower earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge, feeding bees and pollinators and attracting butterflies.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Blue Passionflower with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. It is thornless and easy to handle. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Blue Passionflower
Plant Sale lists Blue Passionflower as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
