This flower is the main reason that certain years we enjoy visits from Gulf fritillary butterflies and Variegated fritillary butterflies. These fritillaries savor the nectar produced by Passiflora blooms. They will migrate well north of their southern ranges where they continue to eat from these extraordinary flowers. How special that nectar must be, to attract frits 100’s of miles north of their usual range!

Our passion flower here is borne on a woody vine growing on a fence at the renowned Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh,  Pennsylvania.

For a northerner, this radially symmetrical flower is a show stopper. I stop to stare every time I encounter one. What design! What color! Kudos to the designer!

Sadly, the fritillaries that may make the trip up north are unlikely to make the return trip. Does anyone know why?

Jeff

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