MAYPOP 



Passiflora incarnata Linnaeus 



The Passionflower Family of three hundred and fifty species is ex- 

 clusively American, and nearly all the species are inhabitants of the 

 tropics. Only a few are found in the United States and of these the 

 maypop is hardy as far north as Virginia and even farther northward. 

 It is a vigorous vine, often growing thirty feet in length, with many 

 tendrils and rich green leaves. The peculiarly scented flowers attract 

 universal attention by their complicated structure and coloring. The 

 various organs of the flower suggested to the devout Spaniards 

 the objects associated with the passion of our Lord, and the Latin 

 name was given in consequence. The fruit is as large as a hen's egg 

 and pale yellow. Its smooth rind is very tough, and the many and 

 large seeds are surrounded by a juicy sweet pulp, which is eaten by 

 children. Some of the tropical passionflowers are highly esteemed 

 for their edible fruits of superior flavor. The common name of the 

 plant refers to the loud popping noise that it makes when squeezed 

 until it bursts. Tennessee has adopted it as the State flower. 



The maypop grows from Florida to Texas and northward to 

 Virginia, southern Indiana, and Missouri. It is easily cultivated, but 

 is not safe to introduce into small gardens, because of its spreading 

 tendencies. 



The sketch was made from specimens secured near Savannah, 

 Georgia. 



PLATE 32.4 



