Passionflowers barely need an introduction. Who hasn't marveled at the beautiful splendor of their intricate blossoms. Thought largely tropical in their distribution, there are a couple members of the genus Passiflora that have tackled temperate North America. My favorite of these is small and not nearly as gaudy as its cousins but that is kind of what makes me like it so much. Today, I would like to introduce you to the yellow passionflower (Passiflora lutea).

Did I mention this was a small plant? Whereas it can vine itself over surrounding vegetation very effectively, it is by no means a bulky plant. Even more incredible are its flowers. Anyone familiar with the anatomy of Passiflora flowers will be shocked to see all of that detail miniaturized into a yellow-green bloom about the size of your thumbnail. You must be quick to catch these in flower as they themselves are only open for about a day.