How to identify Yellow passionflower (Passiflora lutea)

How to identify Yellow passionflower (Passiflora lutea)

Yellow passionflower, also known as Yellow passion flower

Yellow passionflower is a hardy, climbing vine which can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) in height, supported by tendrils that enable vertical growth without damage to supporting structures. Its foliage consists of alternate leaves that are generally three-lobed and can persist through mild winters in appropriate climates. The vine is characterized by its small, greenish-yellow flowers which possess a unique, intricate structure typical of the Passifloraceae family.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Vine, Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Yellow passionflower

Distinct three-lobed leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) long and 3-6 inches (7.6-15.2 cm) wide.

Small, greenish-yellow flowers with intricate petal arrangements, approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.

Marble-sized dark purple to black fruits, 0.2-0.4 inches (5-10 mm) in diameter, with a glossy appearance.

Vine can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) in height, supported by tendrils for vertical growth.

Flowers bloom from June to September, displaying a central corona of thread-like filaments.

Detailed Traits of Yellow passionflower

Leaf Features

The leaves of yellow passionflower are characterized by their distinct three-lobed shape, measuring 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) in length and 3-6 inches (7.6-15.2 cm) in width. They exhibit a subtle variegation with silver hues during the summer months. The texture is generally smooth, with a prominent central vein and less distinct lateral veins. The lobes are well-defined, contributing to the unique appearance which aids in the plant's identification.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of yellow passionflower are notable for their unique appearance, measuring approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. These unusual yellow blooms feature intricate petal arrangements that are particularly striking during their peak bloom from June to September. Each flower displays a central corona of thread-like filaments, adding to their distinctive look. While small in size, the yellow hues and detailed structure of the flowers make them identifiable and appealing to the novice plant enthusiast.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of yellow passionflower is a striking display from late summer to fall. Individuals will encounter small fruits, typically the size of a marble, ranging between 0.2-0.4 inches (5-10 mm) in diameter. These fruits exhibit a glossy, dark purple to black hue, occasionally showing a blue tint reminiscent of a marble's swirling patterns. While they possess a notable bitter taste to human palates, these fruits are a favorite of avian fauna. The spherical berries are encased in a smooth, somewhat leathery skin, maturing to their distinctive coloration as the season progresses.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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