About Passiflora maliformis L.
Passiflora maliformis is a fast-growing evergreen that grows as both a shrub and a vine. Its slender, woody stems can grow 3–10 metres (10–33 ft) long, and have tendrils that the plant uses to climb other plants or structures for support. The fruit of this species is green or orange-green, and can reach up to 5 cm (2.0 in) in diameter. The fruit's skin can be very hard, so a hammer is sometimes needed to open it before consumption. Passiflora maliformis is usually grown from seed, but it can also be propagated through stem cuttings and layering. Grafting it onto rootstock from other Passiflora species can improve its hardiness. This plant grows in warm, wet tropical climates. To successfully set fruit, it requires temperatures that do not drop below around 16 °C (61 °F) while it is flowering. Most Passiflora species flower and fruit more freely when grown in soil with only moderate fertility. Seedlings of Passiflora maliformis can start producing fruit when they are just 1–2 years old. Plants in the Passiflora genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
