Giant Granadilla
passiflora quadrangularis
Also known as: ["Barbados Gooseberry","Giant Tumbo","Badea"]
Overview
A large, vigorous vine with distinctive square stems and large, fragrant flowers that produce edible but seedy fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora quadrangularis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a warm, sheltered garden or greenhouse
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix amended with compost works 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 growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenation
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reducing to every 7–10 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; protect from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Use a thermometer to monitor conditions; group plants to create microclimates; avoid placing near drafty areas.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, every 3 months in winter with slow-release fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes; air layering is also effective for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, apply rooting hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use stems with at least 2 nodes; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage branching, and remove dead or weak growth; focus on maintaining shape and vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, monitor for stress.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, 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 ToxicPassiflora quadrangularis is slightly toxic to cats, primarily due to the presence of compounds in the seeds that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. The fruit itself is generally safe for feline consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten, especially seeds
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile the fruit of Passiflora quadrangularis is generally safe for dogs, the seeds contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in significant amounts. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten, especially seeds
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora quadrangularis, commonly known as giant granadilla, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, the seeds may contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. The fruit and other parts of the plant are typically safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless consumed in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Giant Granadilla fruit edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but contains many seeds and a slightly bitter pulp.
Q: How much space does this plant require?
A: It is a vigorous vine that requires significant space and support for climbing.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its large, fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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