Whip it in the Bud

It's the middle of August. It's not exceptionally warm, but the sun is still high, and the days are still long. Despite this it seems to be taking forever for my two most anticipated buds to open. One is, of course, is P. cirrhiflora. It has several large and small buds on it, but the largest of all is shaping up and beginning to show color through the sepals. That seems like a good sign, but I know that if I hold my breath in hopes that it opens this weekend - I'll pass out. The other is my hybrid, potentially my first to be registered and named. So, that's big for me, and it could be special beyond that and have potential collector value. I'd be perfectly happy with the first of these attributes. I have no clue when that will open, but it may be on the same day as P. cirrhiflora, which would make for one great day to be sure.

Hybrid Hopes

With the pest situations under control, and my new passiflora all flourishing, I have a new goal. I hope to breed a new hybrid and give it a registered name! It seems that the number of hybrids on the scene and up for sale lately has grown exponentially. However, I've noticed, or at least perceived a lack of subgenus tacsonia hybrids. Having said that, I do have 'Mission Dolores' in Pergola-tory, but other than that I haven't seen too many others. I was also lucky enough to score a parritae and exoniensis this Spring, and they're both doing marvelously. In fact, I think the botanical zone that I live in is near perfect for them. So, getting back to my goal, I hope that I can create a new tacsonia hybrid, but I could use some advice! Have any of the seasoned veterans of passiflora horticulture tried the tacsonias? What would you recommend as parents? I'm anxious to hear from you!