Passiflora, known also as the passion flowers or passion vines, is a genus of about 500 species of flowering plants, the namesakes of the family Passifloraceae. They are mostly vines, with some being shrubs, and a few species being herbaceous. Several species of Passiflora are cultivated outside their natural range for their beautiful flowers and delicious edible fruit. The leaves and roots of some, if not all, members of this genus contain a substance called passiflorina which has similarities to morphine and is said to be an effective tranquilizer. Many species are used in herbal infusions to calm the nerves and help bring about a restful sleep. The leaves of many species are also considered to be anthelmintic, anti-hysteric and diaphoretic. They are used in Brazil medicinally to combat intermittent fevers, cutaneous inflammations, and erysipelas. Hundreds of hybrids have been named; hybridizing is currently being done extensively for flowers, foliage and fruit. Most species have round or elongated edible fruit from 5cm to 20cm long and 2.5cm to 5cm across, depending upon the species or cultivar. Passiflora will adjust to any kind of soil, except desert conditions or very alkaline soil. Prefers full sun but will do with a light place or even half-shade. Passiflora need abundant watering during the growing season. In winter watering can significantly be reduced but good soil moisture must be maintained.

Passiflora ligularis, commonly known as Sweet Granadilla, is a close second to Passiflora edulis in terms of taste, and it is used in much the same way. Native to the Andes from Venezuela to Peru, it is naturally a highland plant. It is somewhat rarer in terms of personal cultivation, but it is like edulis in that it is commercially cultivated for its fruit. As with other species of Passiflora, ligularis flowers are some of the most beautiful on earth and carry a sweet scent. As an ornamental, it is ideal for decorating structure such as fences, lattice, trellis and mailboxes and will thrive in almost any soil if it is well-draining. They typically measure around four inches in diameter with the whole vine reaching about fourteen feet in length. It is distinct from other passifloras in that it prefers a temperature range between 7 and 23°C. It is most frequently propagated by seeds but can be done so by cuttings as well.