Water Granadilla
passiflora laurifolia
Also known as: ["Water Passion Flower","Star Apple Passion Flower"]
Overview
A tropical vine with fragrant, showy flowers and edible fruit, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Passiflora |
| Botanical Name: | Passiflora laurifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sheltered, sunny garden spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
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:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat; avoid 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, which can harm roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when 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 promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems, remove dead wood, shape the plant for better air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape for airflow.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting or leaf scorch in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots and stems.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; reduced flowering and vigor in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; adjust for season.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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
Non-toxicPassiflora laurifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant and its fruits are generally safe for feline consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPassiflora laurifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant and its fruits are typically safe for canine consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPassiflora laurifolia, commonly known as Water Granadilla, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is often consumed for its edible fruits, which are rich in vitamins and minerals.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Passiflora laurifolia edible?
A: Yes, its fruit is edible and often consumed in tropical regions.
Q: How often should I water Passiflora laurifolia?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Passiflora laurifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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