Today, in a new neighbourhood, she graces the pergola in my garden, resplendent in her deep purple attire. She is my pride and joy ...the jewel in the crown of my garden haven.
Today I found that I have a rival for her affections. She has a self- appointed guardian who stays by her side, refusing to be scared away by my presence.
Seeing how dedicated the chameleon is to his new-found love, I concede defeat. As long as he is there to protect her, I shall consider him my ally, not foe.
Plant profile
This hardy vine grows very well in the tropics. In Malaysia where I am gardening, the tropical climate is suitable for the vine, even in the hot season which could reach a high of 35 degrees C. It is the humidity that the vine thrives upon. There is abundant rain in the monsoon season (the annual southwest monsoon from April to October, and the northeast monsoon from October to February).
This plant grows well on loamy soil, but can survive on most types of soil. The Passiflora Soi Fah flowers the whole year round, and the blooms are plentiful. You can find as many as 8 buds along one trailing vine, and the buds bloom one at a time. Each flower blooms for a day, but the large number of buds result in a prolific production of blooms on a daily basis.
The blooms have a subtle perfume that is truly remarkable. It is not an overwhelming heavy perfume, but a fragrance that is pleasant, like that of a rose.
The Soi Fah does not bear fruit. It is strictly a flowering vine.
Propagation is possible by taking cuttings, but the more successful method is by layering. Once it takes root, the plants grow fast and the growth can be invasive.
Who wouldn't be enamoured of this beautiful species of passiflora? Not only is she fabulous to look at, she is easy to maintain and a resilient character to top it all.
