Passiflora citrina 'Cocktail Orange'
vine

Yellow Passion Flower

Passiflora citrina 'Cocktail Orange'

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender, evergreen climbing vine prized for its unique, star-shaped flowers. A more compact species ideal for containers or small trellises.

Unusual for the genus, its flowers are self-pollinating and it blooms profusely even when young. The small, star-shaped flowers are held horizontally.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant orange flowers add a tropical flair to gardens and fences, attracting hummingbirds and bees.
Practical UsesEdible flowers and fruit can be used in culinary dishes and teas.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and nectar for pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

84 inches

Width

54 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

10

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central America

Toxicity

Unripe fruit and other plant parts can be toxic if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  3. Ensure the vine is supported on trellises or fences for optimal growth.
  4. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage new growth and better blooms.

Pro Tip

Use a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil for vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily β˜€οΈ
  • Maintain consistently moist but well-drained soil πŸ’§
  • Prune to shape and remove dead or weak stems βœ‚οΈ
  • Support the vine with trellises or arbors
  • Use organic mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to frost; it’s a warm-weather plant
  • Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
  • Don’t neglect support structures for climbing growth
  • Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant
Prune
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vigorous climbing vine on trellises or fencesBright orange flowers along sunny wallsDecorative shrub or accent plant in warm gardens

Companion Plants

Marigolds Sweet potato vine Nasturtiums Sunflowers Hibiscus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yellow Passion Flower questions

What zones can Yellow Passion Flower grow in?

Yellow Passion Flower is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Yellow Passion Flower deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Yellow Passion Flower, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Yellow Passion Flower bloom?

Yellow Passion Flower typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Yellow Passion Flower need full sun?

Yellow Passion Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Yellow Passion Flower drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Yellow Passion Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Yellow Passion Flower with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.