A hardy perennial, climbing plant on a woody stem, to 8 m (26 ft.), it clings to its support with axillary tendrils and has deeply lobed leaves and attractive creamy-white to lavender flowers, with purple calyces.
History and traditions
A plant of tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, it was imaginatively dubbed “Calvary Lesson” by Roman Catholic missionaries in South America, taking the intricate form of its flower to represent Christ’s crucifixion. The three styles are for the nails used on the cross; the five anthers for the five wounds; the corona is the crown of thorns; and the ten sepals are for ten of the twelve apostles leaving out Peter and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. The lobed leaves and tendrils symbolize the hands and scourges of Christ’s tormentors.
Growth
Requires well-drained, sandy soil and a sunny position. Propagation is easiest from semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer. Seed requires heat to germinate and can be slow and erratic to grow.
Parts used
The whole plant cut when fruiting and dried for use in infusions and medicinal preparations.
Uses
Medicinal
Has sedative, pain-relieving properties and is taken for nervous conditions and insomnia.
