Contents
Description
Passiflora Edulis, commonly known as passion fruit, is a vine species of the Passiflora family. It is a tropical fruit that is native to South America and is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The fruit is small, round, and has a tough outer shell that is usually purple or yellow in color. Inside, the fruit is filled with juicy, sweet pulp and many small edible seeds.The passion fruit plant is a vigorous climber that can grow up to 20 feet in length. It has large, three-lobed leaves that are green in color and fragrant flowers that are white or purple. The fruit is produced on the vines throughout the year, and it is harvested when it is fully ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
Appearance
Passion fruit plants have large, green, three-lobed leaves that are fragrant when crushed. The flowers are showy and range in color from white to purple. The fruit is small and round, with a tough outer shell that is usually purple or yellow in color. Inside, the fruit is filled with juicy, sweet pulp and many small edible seeds. The pulp is orange or yellow in color and has a tangy, tropical flavor.
Care Guide
Passion fruit plants require well-drained soil and full sun to grow properly. The ideal soil pH for passion fruit is between 6.0 and 6.5. They need regular watering, especially during the growing season, but they do not like to be waterlogged. Fertilize the plants every two to three months with a balanced fertilizer.Passion fruit plants are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, but they can be grown in other zones as well if they are protected from frost. Prune the plants regularly to keep them from becoming too large and to promote fruit production.
Common Pests & Diseases
Passion fruit plants can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that can affect passion fruit plants include fungal leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To prevent pest and disease problems, keep the plants healthy and well-maintained.
Habitat
Passion fruit plants are native to South America but are now widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, and Africa. They grow best in warm, tropical climates with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I know when passion fruit is ripe?
A: Ripe passion fruit will be slightly wrinkled and have a strong, sweet aroma.
Q: Can passion fruit grow in containers?
A: Yes, passion fruit can be grown in containers, but they will need support as they grow.
Q: How often should I water my passion fruit plant?
A: Passion fruit plants need regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
Q: How long does it take for passion fruit to bear fruit?
A: Passion fruit plants typically begin to bear fruit in their second or third year of growth.
Related Plants
- Passiflora incarnata
- Passiflora ligularis
- Passiflora quadrangularis
- Passiflora caerulea
References
- “Passiflora edulis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=263108
- “Passiflora edulis.” Purdue University. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/passionfruit.html
- “Passiflora edulis.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg057
