If you want to draw in a ton of butterflies and have room for a prolific vine, Passion Vine is the way to go. Take a look at ours. This image captures just one side of the house, its stretched equally as far on the other side of the building.
This vine in less than 3 years old. It was severely trimmed back last winter as well. I show you this scale, so you understand when gardeners say Passion Vine is a fast grower.
Not that I am complaining. I do not mind trimming it when it goes for the roof or a doorway. In fact is has a slight lemony scent so it smells good when you trim it! I enjoy the fact that it draws both Zebra Longwings and Gulf Fritillary to the garden. One lays eggs on shaded plants, the other full sun. The way the vine grows we have full sun, and part shade, and its big enough to support both!
But the best part: The flowers. Nothing compares. Just look.
Now if you are wanting to help out butterflies, you need to go for Passion Vine that blooms purple or blue. When I go to nurseries that focus on butterfly gardening, I am often told the red ones are not great for butterflies. In fact, some avoid it. So if you want to attract butterflies, your safe bet again is purple or blue.
The leaves are really lush as you can see as well. And I rarely see huge bite marks. Caterpillars do not do a lot of damage actually. This vine can take a few hits, no problem. And it rewards with gorgeous flowers, constantly, in our garden. We just love its passion.
