Common passionfruit - Passiflora edulis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Edible)

Common passionfruit

Also known as: Purple passionfruit

Common passionfruit (Passiflora edulis) is a vine species that produce fruit and is native to Brazil and Paraguay. It is useful for its edible fruit, which is sweet and eaten raw or juiced. Its flowers are showy too.

Scientific classification

Species

Common passionfruit (Passiflora edulis)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

4 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Purple

Fruit Color

White, Purple

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Common passionfruit

Distribution of Common passionfruit

Distribution Map

Common passionfruit is native to western South America. It is found in tropical and sub-tropical disturbed forests. It has been introduced to Central America, Africa, Australia, and Asia. Common passionfruit is listed as invasive in South Africa and parts of Oceania, including New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, scrub, forest edges, forest gaps, riparian areas in forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Common passionfruit is often grown as a crop plant, both on a large scale and by individuals. It can adjust to different soil types, but does need to be planted in a sunnier part of the garden to thrive. It is a good screen when grown on a trellis in an ornamental garden. Lemon balm and French marigolds are often planted as companion plants.

Symbolism

Faith, Religious Passion, Belief

Interesting Facts

Nearly 500 years ago, Roman Catholic priests, named the plant for the Passion of Jesus Christ. The flower’s five petals and five sepals symbolize the 10 apostles of Christ. Above the petals of the flower is a circle of rays that they believed looked like the crown of thorns that Jesus wore on the day of his crucifixion.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common passionfruit, including the following common varieties :

Passion flowers 'Party Animal'Common passionfruit 'Possum Purple'

Toxicity

Common passionfruit is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting the fruits and seeds can lead to symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if poisoning is suspected to ensure proper treatment and management. Preventing access to common passionfruit is essential for pet safety.

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Quickly Identify Common passionfruit

Distinctive summer blooms with white petals and purple filaments

Oval-shaped fruits with purple skin and juicy interior

Maturing fruit skin wrinkles as sweetness intensifies

Flourishes in abundant sunlight and consistent moisture

Vivid pigmentation and succulence in flowers and fruits

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Care Guide for Common passionfruit

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common passionfruit thrives in high humidity and prefers regular hydration, ideally watered weekly. It grows best outdoors in well-draining soil that retains some moisture, resembling its tropical habitat, and is moderately tolerant to brief dry spells.

Fertilize: Proper fertilization is crucial for common passionfruit, enhancing growth and fruiting. Use high-phosphorus fertilizers during the growing season and balanced types monthly, adjusting for growth stage. Dilute fertilizers and apply to moist soil to prevent root burn, ensuring common passionfruit thrives healthily.

Pruning: Common passionfruit is a vigorous climber producing intricate flowers and edible fruit. Prune in early spring to promote growth and fruit yield by removing dead wood, thinning branches, and shaping shoots. Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease and enhance sunlight penetration.

Propagation: Common passionfruit produces delicious fruit and decorative flowers. For propagation, use semi-hardwood cuttings with nodes, ideally treated with rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil, mist regularly, and provide warm, indirect light to encourage root growth and successful establishment.

Repotting: Repot common passionfruit every 2-3 years in spring to support its vigorous growth. Use a large, deep container for its roots. After repotting, provide ample light, regular watering, and stake support. Consistent care post-repotting ensures optimal thriving.

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Images of Common passionfruit

Distribution of Common passionfruit

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Common passionfruit

Care Guide for Common passionfruit

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