Fetid Passionflower

A vital larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies including Variegated Fritillary, Mexican Fritillary, and Gulf Fritillary, Fetid Passionflower (Passiflora foetida) is a deciduous Texas vine native across the Gulf Coast Prairies and Marshes and Southern Texas Plains. During Summer and Fall, the plant produces green, purple, yellow blooms. Flowering is followed by ornamental a berry, green or greenish-yellow at maturity that add seasonal interest. Fruits are mildly sweet, sometimes tart. Young leaves and plant tips are edible. It plays a key ecological role as a larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies, including Variegated Fritillary, Mexican Fritillary, and Gulf Fritillary. It provides essential nectar, shelter, or forage for native wildlife, including Birds and Butterflies. Thriving in calcareous, dry, loam, saline, and sand, Fetid Passionflower demonstrates outstanding hardiness once established. It requires minimal supplemental water and tolerates dry spells with ease. It offers moderate deer resistance.