Passiflora edulis

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Prior to sowing scarify seed between 2 sheets of fine sandpaper, then soak seed in warm water (or fruit juice) for 24 hours. Drain seed then sow 2-5mm deep into moist, well-drained seed compost with added vermiculite. Ideal temp. 20°C for 16 hours a day and 30°C for 8 hours a day. If this is not possible a constant 26°C is advised. Germination is erratic and takes 1-12 months. Transplant seedlings carefully and individually when large enough to handle. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Best grown under glass in the UK. Use a loam-based potting compost, offer bright light, but shelter from hot sun. Can be tried outside in a frost-free region. Prefers any moist but well-drained soil in full or partial sun. Will require a framework on which to climb.

Cultivation

Pruning group 11. If training on a wall or trellis tie in new growth, prune back overlong shoots, remove dead shoots. No regular pruning is required. Pruning if required should be carried out after flowering. Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings or via layering in spring or autumn.