Giant Granadilla 4,5L – Passiflora quadrangularis

Description

Passiflora quadrangularis (Giant Granadilla) – 4.5 L

Passiflora quadrangularis, commonly known as the Giant Granadilla, is a tropical vine in the Passifloraceae family. Native to the Neotropics—including South America, Central America, and the Caribbean—this spectacular plant produces large, aromatic flowers and enormous, sweet, melon-like fruits. Its tropical charm makes it a standout addition to any garden or patio.

Plant Description:

Size & Shape: A vigorous climbing vine that can reach up to 15 m in length. Stems have four distinct angles, and leaves are typically three-lobed.

Leaves: Large, glossy green leaves with three lobes, forming dense, tropical foliage.

Flowers: Showy, aromatic flowers with five white petals and a central crown of filaments. Flowers typically bloom in warmer months and attract pollinators.

Fruit: Produces giant edible fruits, 10–12 cm in diameter, with a thick rind turning from green to yellow when ripe. Inside, numerous seeds are surrounded by juicy, aromatic pulp with a sweet tropical flavour reminiscent of pineapple and banana.

Uses: Fruits are excellent fresh, in juices, smoothies, or desserts. Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, iron, magnesium, fibre, and antioxidants. Traditionally used medicinally, though scientific evidence is limited.

PLEASE NOTE: Imported tropical trees are small in size.

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Growing Information

Position / Sunlight:

Plant in semi-sun or dappled shade; protect from hot, direct sun.

Ideal for trellises, pergolas, or fences in warm, tropical gardens.

Soil:

Thrives in humus-rich, moist, well-draining soil.

Prefers neutral soil; avoid very acidic or alkaline conditions.

Watering:

Sensitive to both drought and overwatering.

Once established in the garden, water twice weekly if rainfall is less than 4 cm per week.

Container-grown plants may need more frequent watering.

Mulching:

Apply a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping 20–30 cm away from the base.

Helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilising:

Apply 1 teaspoon of slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 4–5 months.

Pruning:

Prune side shoots in late winter or spring, trimming down to 3–4 buds.

Heavy pruning rejuvenates the plant and encourages healthy growth.

Pollination:

Flowers are insect-pollinated. Cross-pollination may improve fruit set.

Pests & Diseases:

Watch for aphids, red scale, citrus psylla, and fungal infections.

Use Agricultural Neem Oil or EM Control preventatively or after infestation.

Wash affected areas with a strong water stream before treatment.

Maintain good garden hygiene: remove fallen leaves and fruit.

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Harvesting:

Harvest fruits a day or two before they become overly ripe to prevent them from falling and bruising.

Handle with care to preserve pulp quality.