Passion Flower
(Passiflora incarnata)
maypop, passion vine, purple passion flower

Description: A strong woody perennial climbing vine. The stems are from 10-30 feet long, climbing by means of axillary tendrils. Leaves are cleft with 2-3 slightly toothed lobes. The solitary, axillary flowers are white with a purple, blue or pink calyx crown with numerous threads radiating from the center. The fruits are egg-shaped, the size of a small chicken egg. When stepped on they pop. Native to eastern and central U.S. Often cultivated in cooler climates.

Edible, Medicinal: The edible egg-shaped fruit contains a delicious white pulp and is made into refreshing drinks and ice creams. It is a antispasmodic, diuretic, laxative, and sedative. The whole plant is used to treat swollen and irritated eyes. The root is used as a general tonic. Leaves are used for a mild sedative, insomnia, anxiety, to prevent rapid heartbeat, and to reduce high blood pressure. It can relieve muscle spasm of asthma, epilepsy and irritable bowel syndrome. A poultice soothes burns and skin irritations. Harmful in large amounts. Use professionally prepared medications.