Maypop

(Passiflora incarnata)

Maypop (Passiflora incarnata)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Passiflora incarnata image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as maypop, purple passionflower, true passionflower, wild apricot, and wild passion vine, is a fast-growing perennial vine with climbing or trailing stems. It is native to open woodlands, fields, and grassy roadside areas in the Southeastern and South Central USA. This species is part of the passionflower genus Passiflora and is one of the hardiest, able to withstand winter freezes. Maypop reaches a typical height of 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) when supported. Its large, intricate flowers, which bloom from mid to late summer, are bluish-purple with a unique structure, including prominent styles and stamens, and are highly attractive to pollinators. The fruit is egg-shaped, yellowish, and edible when ripe, with a sweet-tart flavor.

Maypop is valued for its showy flowers, edible fruit, and ease of maintenance. It is commonly used to cover fences, arbors, and trellises, and can also serve as a ground cover. In cultivation, it requires full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering, though it is drought-tolerant once established. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings and is suitable for planting in USDA hardiness zones 7–11. While it is a low-maintenance plant, it can spread rapidly and may require pruning to keep it under control. Potential problems include caterpillars of the Gulf Fritillary butterfly, which use the plant as a host, and fungal diseases in humid conditions. Passiflora incarnata is potentially invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 6-8 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, fields, and grassy roadside areas in the Southeastern and South Central USA

Other Names

Common Names: Maypop , True Passionflower , Wild Apricot , Wild Passion Vine

Scientific Names: Passiflora incarnata , Passiflora incarnata f. alba , Granadilla incarnata , Passiflora edulis var. kerii , Passiflora incarnata var. integriloba , Passiflora kerii , Passiflora rigidula

GBIF Accepted Name: Passiflora incarnata L.