Passiflora, also known as passion flowers, encompass over 500 species of gorgeous, unique flowering vines that originated in warm climates of North and South America. While most passion flower species showcase elaborate, intricate blooms in shades of purple, red, pink or white, one particular variety has stolen the hearts of gardeners with its stunning periwinkle blue and white color combination. Introducing Passiflora caerulea ‘Becky’s Blue and White’, a vigorous hybrid passion flower celebrated for its lush greenery and breathtaking bicolored blooms.
An Eye-Catching Hybrid
Rebecca’s Blue and White is a hybrid variety that was made from the native P caerulea or bluecrown passionflower, and an unnamed white passion flower. Through crossbreeding, a fast-growing, cold-hardy vine was created that has the intricate flower structure of traditional passion flowers and shows off its unique periwinkle blue and bright white coloring.
The flowers measure around 3 inches in diameter and showcase frilly white outer petals surrounding a central white corona or “crown.” The stamens emanating from this crown display a stunning light blue hue, creating a bold contrast against the stark white background. These uniquely bicolored blooms appear in profusion from late spring through fall especially when grown in full sun.
Growing Conditions
Like most passiflora, Becky’s Blue and White does best in warm places and does well in USDA zones 7–9. But once it’s established, this hardy hybrid can handle short freezes as low as 10°F, so gardeners in zone 6 can enjoy its beauty.
This passion flower requires full sun exposure to maximize its growth and flower production. It adapts readily to various soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay-based, but prefers average fertility and excellent drainage. Avoid overly rich soil, which can promote excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.
Becky’s Blue and White grows quickly, so support it with strong trellising or fencing. If it has enough room to grow, it can reach 15 to 20 feet in its first year. Regular pruning in late winter shapes the vine and promotes new growth and lots of flowers.
Care and Maintenance
Once it’s established, this carefree beauty doesn’t need much extra water, except when there is a drought. If it doesn’t rain much, soak plants deeply once a week until things get better. Early in the spring, use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer to get plants ready for the growing season.
Watch for suckers emerging away from the main vine and remove them promptly to prevent unwanted spread. Pest problems are rare, but aphids, whiteflies and other sap-sucking insects may appear during hot, dry weather. Monitor for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap as needed.
To promote lush growth and prolific blooms each year, cut back Becky’s Blue and White by at least half in late winter. This stimulates vigorous regrowth and an abundance of flower-bearing stems. Remove and discard any diseased or damaged wood at the same time.
Landscape Uses
With its brilliant periwinkle and white blooms and quick growth habit, Becky’s Blue and White brings life and color to patios, pergolas, fences and more. It can create a stunning flowering wall to define an outdoor space or soften the lines of a building. For maximum impact, plant multiple vines 5-10 feet apart and train them to grow vertically on a shared support.
This showstopper also shines when allowed to meander through trees and shrubs. The striking flowers stand out beautifully against a backdrop of deep green foliage. Try combining it with evergreen viburnums, abelia or holly for year-round interest.
Becky’s Blue and White entices pollinators like no other, making it a great addition to butterfly and hummingbird gardens. Plant it alongside salvias, pentas, verbena, lantana and other nectar-rich flowers to create an insect paradise.
Availability
Due to high demand for its stunning beauty and vigor, Passiflora Becky’s Blue and White sells out quickly each season. Check local nurseries in early spring for the best selection. Many mail order nurseries, like Groovy Plants Ranch and Xera Plants, offer limited quantities available for preorder.
Each vine comes in a 4 inch or 1 gallon nursery pot and ranges in price from $15-$25. For the best value, take advantage of volume discounts by purchasing 3 or more plants.
A Passionflower with Passion
With its tropical allure and captivating bicolored blooms, Becky’s Blue and White passionflower promises to be the highlight of any garden. This vigorous, resilient hybrid couples fantastic flower power with easy care and hardy nature. Give it plenty of space to climb and get ready for a floral display beyond imagination. No matter the location, Becky’s Blue and White will unleash cascades of breathtaking beauty that attract admiring looks from people and pollinators alike.
How To Grow Passiflora caerulea ‘Becky’s Blue & White Passion Vine’
FAQ
Does passionflower come back every year?
Passionflowers are rapid growers, coming back every year in zones 7-11. Does passionflower bloom all year? The unusual-looking flowers bloom from midsummer to early fall but last about one day.
Who should not drink passion flower tea?
Talk to your health care provider if you are taking passionflower within 2 weeks of a scheduled surgery. Passionflower should not be used during pregnancy as it may induce uterine contractions and possibly lead to other problems. Little is known about whether it’s safe to use passionflower while breastfeeding.
What does the name Caerulea mean?
It is the state flower of Colorado. The Latin specific name coerulea (or caerulea) means “sky blue“.
Is Passiflora caerulea invasive?
Yes, Passiflora caerulea, commonly known as blue passionflower, can be invasive. It’s known for its vigorous growth and ability to spread through long runners and suckers, potentially outcompeting other plants.