Family: Passifloraceae
Author: Mast.
Bibliography: Gard. Chron. 1868: 966 (1868)
Year: 1868
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Passiflora
Vegetable: False
Observations: S. Trop. America
Description
Crato passionvine, scientifically known as Passiflora cincinnata, is a remarkable specimen within the flora of southern tropical America. It stands as a proud member of the Passifloraceae family, celebrated for its astounding diversity and unique flowering vines. The original comprehensive description of this vibrant species dates back to an 1868 publication in the Gardeners’ Chronicle by the noted botanist George Bentham, under the authorship of Mast.
The Crato passionvine is distinguished by its intricate, delicate flowers that captivate botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. The blossom of Passiflora cincinnata is a flourishing tapestry of color and structure, exhibiting a complex arrangement of petals and sepals that form an eye-catching star shape. This exquisite floral design is not only visually enchanting but also functional, luring a variety of pollinators that are essential for the plant’s reproduction.
Native to the warmth and humidity of South American tropical regions, the Crato passionvine flourishes in a habitat where it can thrive on the ample sunlight and moist, rich soils. This species has adapted exceptionally well to its environment, displaying vigorous growth and tenacity in its native landscape.
Apart from its visual splendor, the Crato passionvine also holds significant ecological value. It serves as a host plant for several species of butterflies, providing nourishment and habitat for their larvae. This intricate relationship underscores the importance of preserving both the plant and its natural habitat to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
In cultivation, Passiflora cincinnata is appreciated for its ornamental appeal. Gardeners often favor this vine for arbors and trellises, where its climbing habit and lush foliage can be showcased. However, cultivating Crato passionvine requires an understanding of its native growing conditions, ensuring it receives proper care to mimic its natural tropical environment.
In summary, the Crato passionvine (Passiflora cincinnata) is a botanical marvel, boasting fascinating flowers and ecological significance. Described in detail in the 19th century and thriving in the southern tropics of America, it remains an emblem of the intricate beauty and balance within the plant kingdom.
Common Names
Spa: bombolla, montera, pachio
Eng: crato passionvine
Por: maracuja, maracujá-do-mato, maracujá-mi, maracujá-mochila
En: Crato passionvine
Pt: Maracuja, Maracujá-do-mato, Maracujá-mi, Maracujá-mochila
Es: Bombolla, Pachio, Montera
Synonyms
- Passiflora perlobata (Killip)
- Passiflora cincinnata var. imbricata (Chodat & Hassl.)
- Passiflora cincinnata var. minor (Hoehne)
- Passiflora pisonis (Kostel.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken May 2, 2018 by Melo Natoniel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 9, 2016 by patattaze (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2016 by Matt Babino (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2020 by de souza Dayane Luciene (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2017 by Pina Colada (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Oct 21, 2020 by Gem Yuson (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2019 by Daniel Bäck (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 20, 2022 by bülent balkan (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Dec 11, 2020 by Almada James (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 22, 2019 by Daniel Bäck (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2874200)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:321963-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Passiflora cincinnata Mast.)
