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Description
Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis, commonly known as Azuay Granadilla, is a species of passionflower that belongs to the Passifloraceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. The plant is a perennial vine that can grow up to 10 meters long, with stems that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are three-lobed and can reach up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are large, showy, and have a distinctive blue-purple color with white centers. The fruit is a green, oblong berry that contains numerous seeds. The plant is known for its edible fruit, which has a sweet and tangy flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
| Species | Tripartita |
| Variety | Azuayensis |
Appearance
The Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis has an attractive appearance due to its large, showy flowers and edible fruits. The leaves are three-lobed and have a glossy, dark green color. The flowers are about 10 cm in diameter and have a blue-purple color with white centers. They have a distinctive shape with five petals and five sepals. The fruit is a green, oblong berry that can reach up to 7 cm in length. The seeds are small and numerous, and the fruit has a sweet and tangy flavor.
Care Guide
The Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Provide the plant with full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can withstand temperatures down to 25°F (-4°C) and is suitable for hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause stunted growth and leaf curling.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat the leaves and damage the plant.
- Mites: Mites can cause leaf discoloration and damage.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause white, powdery patches on the leaves.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to wilting and death of the plant.
Habitat
The Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis is native to South America and can be found in Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and disturbed areas. It is commonly cultivated for its edible fruit and ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis is a fast-growing plant that can grow up to 10 meters long in one growing season.
Q: Can the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis can be grown in a container, but it will require regular pruning to control its growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis require support to grow?
A: Yes, the Passiflora Tripartita Var. Azuayensis is a vine that requires support to grow upward.
Related Plants
- Passiflora caerulea
- Passiflora edulis
- Passiflora incarnata
- Passiflora lutea
References
- “Passiflora tripartita var. azuayensis.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed October 1, 2021. https://pza.sanbi.org/passiflora-tripartita-var-azuayensis/.
- “Passiflora tripartita var. azuayensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e591.
- “Passiflora tripartita var. azuayensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 1, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/245790/Passiflora-tripartita-var-azuayensis/Details.
