Common Name: Red Passionflower

General Information

Passiflora manicata is a climbing plant producing stems up to 3 metres long[]. These stems scramble over the ground, or clamber into the surrounding vegetation, supporting themselves by means of coiling tendrils.
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food. It is occasionally cultivated for its edible fruit[], and is often grown as an ornamental, being valued especially for its flowers[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

S. America - Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela.

Habitat

Found at elevations from 1,500 - 2,500 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Climber
Height	3.00 m
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

A plant of higher elevations in the tropics, where it is found at 1,500 - 2,500 metres. It grows well in Mediterranean-type climates[]. Plants are not so vigorous, nor do they flower so well, when grown at lower elevations[].
Passiflora species generally grow best in a sheltered, sunny position or in dappled shade. Most species are found in the wild in moist but well-drained soils, generally of a lighter texture, and will often flower and fruit more heavily if the soil fertility is low. They often develop deep roots and can be moderately tolerant of dry spells. Most Passiflora species prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline soil, growing best where the pH is around 6. 5 - 7.5[, ].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw[, ]. The orange pulp has an agreeable, piquant flavour[]. The fruit can also be used to make a pleasant beverage[]. The green, ovoid fruit is about 35 - 60mm long and 25 - 35mm wide[, , ].

Medicinal

The leaves and roots of some, if not all, members of this genus contain a substance called 'passiflorina' which has similaritiesr to morphine and is an effective tranquilizer[]. We have no specific information for this species but many species are used in herbal infusions to calm the nerves and help bring about a restful sleep[].
The leaves of many species are also considered to be anthelmintic, antihysteric and diaphoretic. They are used in Brazil to combat intermittent fevers, cutaneous inflammations, and erysipelas[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe along with the pulp which will help break down the seed coat and speed up germination[]. Stored seed should be soaked for 24 hours in warm water and germination time can be reduced if the seed is then mixed with the juice of a fresh passion fruit (of any species)[]. Even so, it can take 12 months for stored seed to germinate[]. Place the seed tray in a shady position, maintaining a temperature around 19 - 24°c[]. Prick the seedlings out into individual containers as soon as they are large enough to handle and plant out when large enough[].
Cuttings of young shoots, taken at the nodes. The cuttings root best in a neutral to slightly acid compost, but 100% sharp sand also produces good results[].
Cuttings of fully mature wood taken at a node. They can take 3 months[].
Layering. Very easy[].
Air layering.

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