Corky Stemmed Passion Vine

The corky stemmed passion vine (Passiflora suberosa) is often spread by birds who consume its dime-sized dark purple fruits filled with many tiny seeds.  Often overlooked in the landscape, this diminutive vine is the larval host plant for three butterfly species – zebra longwing, gulf fritillary, and julia. 

This plant is uniquely co-evolved with these butterflies:  Its leaves are very variable in shape and size in an effort to prevent the butterflies from ovipositing (egg-laying), and extra-floral nectaries attract ants which poach upon butterfly eggs.  Its flowers, like its fruits, are dime-sized, and, as with all members of the Passifloraceae family, its flowers depict the passion of Christ.  Older vines have light colored corky stemmed giving rise to the common name for this plant.

The zebra longwing is the Florida state butterfly.  This long-lived butterfly with broad yellow and black “zebra” striped wings prefers hammock shade.  At night, these beautiful butterflies roost communally.   Planting corky stemmed passionflower is the best way to attract our beautiful state butterfly to your yard.

Text & photos by Janice Broda.