'‘Avalanche’ passionflower (Passiflora) – flowering climber – 11 cm pot – 40 cm tall – pack of 2

The 'Avalanche' passionflower (Passiflora) is considered semi-hardy: it can tolerate light, temporary frosts, but cannot withstand temperatures below -5°C for extended periods. In mild climates (Mediterranean coast, temperate Atlantic regions), it can overwinter in the ground, provided the base is generously mulched with bark or fallen leaves. In colder areas (northern Loire, higher altitudes), it is strongly recommended to wrap the stems in horticultural fleece and bring potted plants indoors to a frost-free location.

The Avalanche 'Passionflower' is a full-sun plant that requires at least 6 hours of 'direct sunlight per day to develop generous blooms. A south or southwest-facing wall or fence provides the 'ideal location, as the heat absorbed by the wall promotes rapid stem growth and flower bud formation. In partial shade, the plant grows but flowers little. In a pot on a patio, choose the 'sunniest corner of your outdoor space. Areas sheltered from cold northerly winds also extend the autumn blooming season.

When planting in the ground, choose well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, enriched w'ith a good amount of compost at the bottom of the planting hole. Passionflower dislikes heavy, waterlogged soils: if the soil is clay-heavy, mix in coarse sand to improve drainage. In a pot, use a mixture of two-thirds multipurpose potting soil and'one-third sand or pumice, in a container at least 30 cm in diameter to allow the roots to develop.

Passiflora 'Avalanche' is renowned for its rapid growth: in good conditions with adequate light and watering, it can grow several dozen centimetres or even more than a metre in a single season. From its first year, the plant explores its support and begins to establish itself firmly. In subsequent years, it quickly covers a trellis, pergola or fence with its climbing stems and numerous tendrils. This vigour makes it an excellent choice for quickly creating a natural screen or covering an unsightly wall. To manage this growth, annual pruning in spring is recommended.

The 'Avalanche' passionflower (Passiflora) generally blooms from June to October, with a peak in midsummer when there is maximum sunlight. Its flowers are large, pure white, with the very distinctive star-shaped structure of passionflowers, with radiating filaments that give them an exotic and sophisticated appearance. The delicate fragrance they give off also attracts pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. The flowering is continuous throughout the summer period, regularly renewing its buds on the new shoots.

Yes, the 'Avalanche' passionflower grows very well in a pot on a balcony or terrace, provided that it ' gets plenty of sun. Choose a large container (at least 30 to 40 cm in diameter) with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Install a support such as a trellis or tensioned cables for the plant to climb naturally. In a pot, watering will need to be more frequent than ' when planted in the ground, especially in midsummer, as the potting mix dries out quickly.

The 'Avalanche' passionflower (Passiflora) pairs beautifully with other climbing plants in the garden: a blue or purple clematis creates a striking colour contrast with the passionflower's white blooms. At the foot of a wall, lavender, shrubby sage or ornamental grasses harmoniously complete the composition by adding different textures at ground level. For a distinctly Mediterranean look, pair it with agapanthus or cistus. On a patio, a pot of blue plumbago placed nearby makes an excellent garden picture.