Passion Fruit
passiflora edulis
Also known as: ["Passionfruit","Granadilla"]
Overview
A vigorous vine producing round to ovoid fruit with a juicy, aromatic pulp and a tough outer rind.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora edulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: trellised or supported outdoor location with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter (e.g., peat moss, compost) and perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering se
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun with adequate water, but protect from intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, provide shade during peak sun hours, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions; protect from drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; keep away from air vents; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burn; fertilize after watering to prevent root shock; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant 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 (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of lateral shoots, removal of old or weak stems, shaping for better light exposure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage branching, and remove dead/diseased growth; focus on maintaining shape and productivity.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased parts, shape for airflow.
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 roots if crowded, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare fresh soil mix, trim roots if needed, water sparingly after repotting, place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use acidic amendments like peat moss if pH is too high.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, bud drop, slowed growth, or leaf burn in extreme heat/cold.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf drop, potential dieback; may enter dormancy in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, reduce watering, protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid foliage contact, rinse container after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPassiflora edulis is not considered toxic to cats. The fruit is safe for consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora edulis is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruit is safe for consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora edulis, commonly known as passion fruit, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The fruit is widely consumed and is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is passion fruit edible?
A: Yes, the pulp is edible and highly prized for its sweet-tart flavor.
Q: Does passion fruit require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How do I propagate passion fruit?
A: It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, with cuttings often being faster and more reliable.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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