Passiflora edulis Granadillas (Passionfruit)

Planting position: Full sun. Ideal for frost-free regions. Spacing of 3m and 4m between north facing rows.

Requires regular watering, especially during dry seasons. Well-draining, compost-enriched loamy soil and generous layers of mulching and incorporate superphosphate to root level. Stake each plant lightly, reaching to the wire or trellis. Pinch side shoots and tie plants regularly, while the main growth reaches the trellis. Train the leader in a T-shape or one direction and coil gently around the wire. Prune after Harvesting on old, diseased and unwanted growth. Cut laterals back to new, developing shoots, to encourage the new, fruit-bearing growth. Never cultivate around trees.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
Fertilising programme: apply 115g of 3:1:5 each at the end of autumn and the end of winter.
Harvesting is done when the fruit has turned a purple colour.
Pests, diseases and their cures: Scales - spray with Malathion and mineral oil; Mealy bugs - spray with Malathion immediately; Bullet disease - remove and burn infected vines.

This perennial vine could be both aesthetically pleasing, growing against a wall or trellis, and also provide its uniquely flavoured fruits. The granadilla fruit is used mostly for flavouring or eaten in fruit salads.