1011: Passion flower (Passiflora trifasciata)

Botanical Illustration. Artist Codes: 1009-1013 SOLD. Completed between February and March 2010. Original water colours on Aquarelle Arches 100% hot pressed cotton rag paper. Unframed size 12″ x 16″.

I received the commission to paint five plants to feature in new ID signs at Marwell Wildlife’s Tropical World in November 2009. I visited the zoo to meet the commissioners and to view the plants in situ. I took resource photographs and received live material of the plants. I had to submit preliminary drawings for approval and all were accepted with only one minor alteration.

Marwell Wildlife seeks to address causes of extinction such as habitat loss and the over-exploitation of biological resources and to manage vulnerable populations of threatened species to ensure their survival. This is achieved through a range of species and habitat conservation programmes locally through Marwell’s base in southern England and internationally, with a particular focus in Africa.

Artist Code 1011: Passion flower (Passiflora trifasciata) Genera: Passifloraceae. Origin: Amazon, Northern Peru.

Passiflora trifasciata is a vigorously growing vine from Peru and can grow to a height of 12-15 feet. It climbs by means of clinging tendrils and needs much support to climb. It has some of the most beautifully ornamental leaves of all Passiflora with yellow-cream to pinkish variegations along the main nerves. The underside of the leaf is a dark purple in colour. The small flowers, about one inch, are a combination of cream, pink and light green and very fragrant.