Common Name: Maracuja Mochila

General Information

Passiflora cincinnata is a herbaceous climbing plant with a perennial rootstock, producing annual or perennial climbing shoots. These shoots scramble over the ground, or clamber into the surrounding vegetation, supporting themselves by means of coiling tendrils[].
The edible fruit is greatly appreciated within the plant's native range, where it is gathered from the wild for local consumption[]. The plant has very showy, violet flowers and has often been grown as an ornamental[, ].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

S. America - Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Venezuela.

Habitat

Forests and scrubby areas[]. Very common on forest edges, and also in the border of crops where it can sometimes become a weed[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Perennial Climber
Height	0.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

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[]. This species is drought tolerant[]. 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[]. A juicy pulp with a sweet flavour[]. Of good quality, it is eaten fresh and can be used to make juices, desserts etc[]. The green, ovoid fruits are about 5 - 6cm long and 3 - 4cm in diameter[].

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

An oil obtained from the seeds is used as an ingredient in commercial cosmetic preparations as a skin conditioner[].

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.
Leaf bud cuttings.

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