Wild Maracuja, Bush Passion Fruit
passiflora foetida
Also known as: ["Barbados Gooseberry","Crazy Vine","Tuna de Coyote"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine native to the Americas, known for its unique, fuzzy fruit and ornate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora foetida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a warm, sheltered garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely needed in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun with adequate water, especially in cooler climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes; can also propagate from seeds, though slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased growth; shape plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), slowed growth.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf discoloration, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to mild toxicity from cyanogenic glycosides found in the seeds and unripe fruits of Passiflora foetida. The ripe fruit is generally safe for cats in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs may experience mild toxicity if they ingest large quantities of the seeds or unripe fruits of Passiflora foetida due to cyanogenic glycosides. The ripe fruit is generally safe for dogs in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicPassiflora foetida contains small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, particularly in its seeds and unripe fruits. These compounds can release cyanide when ingested, leading to mild physiological effects. The ripe fruit is generally considered safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora foetida edible?
A: The fruit is edible when ripe, but the rest of the plant is mildly toxic.
Q: How do I control its invasive growth?
A: Regular pruning and containment are necessary to manage its vigorous spread.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and fruit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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