Semi-Frost hardy fruit 5 seed Passiflora decaisneanna RARE

Passiflora decaisneanna

5 seed

Passiflora decaisneana is a hybrid form of Passiflora alta (Fragrant granadilla) and Passiflora quadrangularis (the giant Granadilla). Flowers are very similar to Passiflora alata but are slightly larger (to 13 cm) and on this one sepals and petals red inside & sepals green out & petals red out. Fruit has more in common with the giant granadilla although it is not quite as large - egg-shaped and dull orange when ripe but only to about 18 cm in this case. It is a fast growing vine, arising from a fleshy root that enlarges with age, and can climb to a height of 10-15 m.

The pulp around the seeds is used to flavor ice cream and to make a cooling drink. In addition, the flesh of this fruit is edible. The green fruit is boiled and eaten as a vegetable. The fully ripe flesh is eaten alone or in combination with such fruits as papaya and pineapple.

This species grows well over a variety of soil types, but might suffer micro-nutrient deficiencies on highly alkaline soils. It benefits from annual pruning to control its size and to produce young juvenile wood which produces more flowers and potential fruit. It should not be allowed to grow on any tree since it will compete agressively for space in the sun, and it might damage or kill its support.

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