Passion Fruit "Passiflora Eduli Possum Purple" Plant Care Instructions

The "Possum Purple" Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis 'Possum Purple') is a variety known for its flavorful and aromatic fruits. Here's a guide to its zone, planting, and care:

  1. Hardiness Zone: The Possum Purple Passion Fruit is typically grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It requires a warm, frost-free climate to thrive.

  2. Planting:

    • Timing: Plant Passion Fruit in the spring after the last frost or in early summer.
    • Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Passion Fruit vines can be trained to climb a trellis or fence.
    • Spacing: Plant vines 10-15 feet apart to allow for proper growth and fruit production.
    • Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and plant the vine at the same depth as it was in the nursery container. Backfill with soil and water well.

  3. Care:

    • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water deeply and regularly, but avoid waterlogging the soil.
    • Fertilizing: Fertilize Passion Fruit vines in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
    • Pruning: Prune Passion Fruit vines in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to promote new growth. Pruning can also help control the size of the vine and improve air circulation.
    • Protecting from Frost: Passion Fruit vines are sensitive to frost, so protect them from cold temperatures by covering them with a blanket or tarp during frosty nights.

  4. Harvesting:

    • Passion Fruit is ready to harvest when the fruits are fully ripe and fall off the vine easily. The fruits will change color from green to purple or yellow, depending on the variety.
    • Harvest fruits regularly to encourage continued fruit production.

With proper care, your Possum Purple Passion Fruit vine can provide you with a bountiful harvest of delicious fruits for years to come.