Passionfruit Care (Passiflora edulis group: P. edulis, ‘lilikoi’, P. flavicarpa, ‘Tango’)

Passionfruit are vigorous vines that thrive with heat, sun, and a sturdy trellis. Purple passionfruit (Passiflora edulis) is typically self-fertile and more cold-tolerant; yellow passionfruit (P. edulis f. flavicarpa) tends to be more tropical and often benefits from cross-pollination. In marginal climates, container culture with winter protection is the surest path. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

Site, trellis & training

Pick the warmest, sunniest, wind-sheltered spot. Install strong end posts with two or three high wires; train one or two leaders up a support, then pinch to encourage laterals that run along the top wire(s). Keep the canopy thin enough for light penetration—flowers form on new growth. In containers, use a 15–25 gal pot, very well-drained mix, and a stout trellis. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

Temperature & overwintering

Growth slows below ~55°F (13°C) and frost will damage foliage. In zone 7–8, grow in large containers and winter indoors or in a cool greenhouse. Outdoors in mild zones, mulch the crown, protect during hard freezes, and be prepared to retrain after cold snaps. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}

Water & feeding

Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Regular, light feeding during active growth (balanced liquid feed monthly plus micronutrients) supports flowering; excessive nitrogen produces leaves at the expense of blooms. Use drip on in-ground plants and ensure excellent drainage in containers. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}

Pollination & fruiting

Flowers open for a single day; large bees (e.g., carpenter bees) are effective pollinators. Hand pollination—transferring fresh pollen mid-morning—boosts set where pollinators are scarce, especially for yellow types. Fruit typically ripens 2–3 months after bloom; flavor peaks when shells color and fruit falls or wrinkles slightly. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}

Pests & disorders

In containers, watch for scale, mealybugs, and mites; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap (apply in the evening and repeat). Maintain airflow to reduce foliar disease—avoid overhead irrigation late in the day. Nutrient imbalances (especially iron in high-pH media) can cause chlorosis—use chelated Fe if needed. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}

Sources & further reading

• UF/IFAS EDIS, Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis) (home landscape guidance). :contentReference[oaicite:35]{index=35}
• University of Hawai‘i CTAHR, Passion Fruit resources (cultivation notes; historical bulletins). :contentReference[oaicite:36]{index=36}