One of the showiest flowers - they were named by Spanish priests who saw in them the story of the crucifixion of Christ. The 3" complex lavender blooms are made up of 3 stigmas (the nails), 5 stamens (the 5 wounds) a fringed corona (crown of thorns), ten sepals and petals (the apostles - minus Peter and Judas). The vines' tendrils are the whips that beat Him and the 3 to 5 lobed leaves are the hands of the persecutors. The egg shaped fruits are delicious alone and used to flavor juices and ice creams. The leaves have sedative properties and are used to treat insomnia, anxiety, asthma, high blood pressure and palpitations. This is hardy for us and north through Ohio. Native from S. Pennsylvania, S. Missouri south to Texas.