Banana passionfruit

Banana Passionfruit (Passiflora mollissima) is a species of passiflora that is native to the Andes mountains between Venezuela and Bolivia. It is known for its sweet, banana-like fruit and is cultivated for both its fruit and ornamental value.

Description

The Banana Passionfruit is a vigorous, climbing vine that can reach up to 7 meters in height. The leaves are three-lobed and can be up to 15 cm long. The flowers are pink, with a white center, and can be up to 9 cm in diameter. The fruit is oblong, up to 12 cm long, and has a yellow skin when ripe. The pulp is orange and sweet, with a flavor reminiscent of bananas.

Cultivation

Banana Passionfruit is grown in the tropics and subtropics, at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,500 meters. It prefers well-drained soil and a location with full sun or partial shade. The plant is propagated from seeds, which germinate in 2 to 4 weeks. The fruit is harvested when it falls from the plant.

Uses

The fruit of the Banana Passionfruit is eaten fresh or used in juices, jams, and desserts. It is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures to treat insomnia and nervous disorders.

Conservation

While the Banana Passionfruit is not currently considered threatened, its habitat in the Andes is being lost due to deforestation and agricultural expansion.

See also

• Passiflora edulis
• Passiflora incarnata
• Passiflora quadrangularis