Contents
Description
Passiflora Mollissima, commonly known as banana passionfruit, is a tropical plant that belongs to the Passiflora family. It is native to South America and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Hawaii. The plant is known for its unique appearance and edible fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
Appearance
Passiflora Mollissima is a vine-like plant that can grow up to 10 meters in length. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and lighter underneath. The plant produces unique, fragrant flowers that are typically pink or purple in color and have a diameter of about 8 cm. The fruit of Passiflora Mollissima is oval-shaped and can grow up to 10 cm in length. It has a yellow to orange skin and is filled with edible pulp that has a sweet and sour taste.
Care Guide
Passiflora Mollissima is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Passiflora Mollissima should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Passiflora Mollissima requires full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Passiflora Mollissima is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Fungal diseases: Passiflora Mollissima is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot.
Habitat
Passiflora Mollissima is native to the tropical regions of South America, including Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. It grows in forests and along riverbanks and can be found at elevations up to 2400 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Passiflora Mollissima a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Passiflora Mollissima is a fast-growing plant that can grow up to 10 meters in length.
Q: Can I grow Passiflora Mollissima indoors?
A: Passiflora Mollissima requires full sun to partial shade, so it is not recommended to grow it indoors unless you have a sunny, south-facing window.
Q: How often should I fertilize Passiflora Mollissima?
A: Passiflora Mollissima should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I eat the fruit of Passiflora Mollissima?
A: Yes, the fruit of Passiflora Mollissima is edible and has a sweet and sour taste.
Related Plants
- Passiflora Edulis
- Passiflora Incarnata
- Passiflora Ligularis
- Passiflora Quadrangularis
References
- “Passiflora mollissima.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 15 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passiflora_mollissima.
- “Passiflora mollissima.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:675967-1.
- Anderson, Edward F. The Cactus Family. Timber Press, 2001.
