If you would force me to choose, I would declare Passiflora to be my favorite flowering plant. Last year I planted four different varieties, this year I added three more. Snow Queen and Calipso seem to feel right at home at Les Pierres. It’s such a joy to see them shine so early in the year!
Passion flower (Passiflora Incarnata) has a long history as a medicinal plant and is a trusted general relaxant. It is used as a remedy for nervous tension and an over-active brain that prevents sleep. Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine describes it as a “mild sedative and analgesic without leaving depression.”
We pick the leaves (tender ones are nicer, but they are all effective) and the flowers and dry them in the dehydrator. It makes a lovely, soothing tea.
Here are the ones we are currently growing at Domaine Les Pierres:
