Passionfruit (Passifloraceae).

Abstract

The most popular Passiflora species grown in Australia are the purple passion fruit (Passiflora edulis), the golden passion fruit (P. edulis f. flavicarpa) and P. ligularis. Queensland studies showed that passion fruits grow best on fertile, well-drained loams of pH >6.0. On soils of pH <5.5 lime is required. P. edulis tolerates light frosts but temperatures below -2 deg C are injurious. The production season is also much influenced by species. The purple passion fruit produces a heavy summer crop in Queensland, whereas the golden passion fruit has an extended season from late summer into early winter. Yield potential is discussed with reference to species, hybrids and location; it can range from 5 to 45 tonnes/ha. Export is largely of processed fruit as juice or pulp. Cultural details, pests and diseases, harvesting methods, storage, transport and processing are also discussed.