Passion Fruit (group)

Passion fruit refers collectively to several species within the genus Passiflora, known for their edible, aromatic fruit. These fruits are typically round to oval, with a tough, leathery rind that can range in color from purple to yellow, red, or green depending on the species and variety. Inside the rind is a pulpy interior filled with numerous edible seeds.

The most commonly cultivated species is Passiflora edulis, which includes the purple and yellow varieties. Other notable species that produce edible fruits include Passiflora ligularis (sweet granadilla), Passiflora quadrangularis (giant granadilla), and Passiflora laurifolia (water lemon).

Passion fruit is native to subtropical regions of the Americas, but is now cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa.

The pulp and seeds are eaten fresh, often added to fruit salads, or processed into juice, jams, jellies, and desserts. The fruit is prized for its distinctive tangy, slightly sweet flavor and intense aroma.

Passion fruit vines are climbing plants that require support such as trellises or fences. They are known for their attractive flowers, which are typically large and showy, often exhibiting a complex structure with colorful petals, sepals, and a prominent corona.