Passiflora umbilicata

Passiflora umbilicata is an evergreen vine in the passion flower family. Its native range runs from Bolivia into northwestern Argentina. It grows in mountain sites at 8,200–9,840 feet [2,500–3,000 metres]. Kew places it in a tropical region with a dry season. Locosti is one of its common names. An older scientific name is Tacsonia umbilicata.

This fast-growing climber reaches about 16 feet [5 metres] in height. Its spread can also reach 16 feet [5 metres]. The stems trail across the ground or climb nearby plants. Coiled tendrils grip their supports as the stems grow. It keeps its leaves through the year in suitable conditions. Gardeners grow it for ornament as well as fruit. A sunny woodland edge or a south-facing or west-facing wall can suit it.

Plants For A Future lists flowering from June to September. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bees pollinate the flowers. Seeds ripen from September to November. The fruit reaches about 0.23 feet [0.07 metres] long. Its width can reach 0.13 feet [0.04 metres]. People gather wild fruit for local food use. They eat it fresh or cook it. Useful Tropical Plants reports that fruit set needs flowering temperatures around 16°C or above.

Give the roots moist soil that drains well. Soil rich in humus suits this plant. It can grow in sand, loam, or clay. Keep it well supplied with moisture during active growth. Near-neutral soil offers a sound choice; avoid strongly alkaline conditions. The sources differ on light needs. Plants For A Future rules out shade. Useful Tropical Plants recommends light, broken shade with access to sun above. It also reports that the plant tolerates hard pruning. Cutting stems to ground level can renew growth.

This species suits mild climates, but frost can damage it. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. In Britain, outdoor growth is most reliable in the mildest areas. Winter cold may kill the stems while the roots survive. A thick mulch helps protect those roots. New shoots may then appear in early summer. Young plants can spend their first winter under glass. Plant them outdoors after the last expected frost. Both plant-use sources report no known hazards. This does not establish that every plant part is edible. Plants For A Future records no known medicinal uses.