Stinking Passionflower (Passiflora foetida)

Stinking Passionflower

Passiflora foetida

Its fringed bracts wrap blooms like delicate lace. Trailing vine with pungent foliage.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full to partial direct sunlight; tolerates light shade, but blooms best in consistent direct sun
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Three-lobed glossy green leaves with serrated margins; emits a pungent odor when crushed
  • Flower: White to pale purple blooms surrounded by fringed, filament-like bracts
  • Stem: Slender, wiry climbing stems with coiled tendrils for anchorage
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during hot, dry periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth with reduced flowering

Composted coffee grounds tea:Use fully composted coffee grounds steeped in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid burning roots
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown or tangled vines in early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth
  • Remove dead, yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Train tendrils to trellises or supports to control climbing growth
  • Prune spent blooms to promote continuous flowering throughout the growing season
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Contains cyanogenic glycosides; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy

Humans: Mild toxicity if large quantities are ingested; may cause gastrointestinal distress

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental climbing vine; some regional traditional medicinal uses for minor ailments