Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima, commonly known as Banana Passionfruit, is a perennial vine that thrives in the cool, moist conditions of the subtropical highlands of the Andes in South America. It is particularly prevalent in cloud forests and areas with high humidity. This vigorous climber can rapidly reach heights of 15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters) and is known for its tri-lobed leaves and tendrils that enable it to cling to supports. The vine produces large, pink or white flowers that are highly ornamental and showy, blooming profusely in the spring and summer months. Following the flowering season, it bears elongated, banana-shaped fruits with a sweet, aromatic pulp that is edible and often used in desserts and beverages.

Banana Passionfruit is valued for its ornamental flowers, delicious fruits, and rapid growth, making it a popular choice for covering trellises, arbors, and fences. It is also used in tropical and subtropical gardens for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in medium or fast-draining loam or sandy soils. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. While it can be a beautiful addition to the garden, Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima is potentially invasive in some regions, so it is crucial to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0