The ‘Panama Red’ is a popular and high-yielding variety of tropical passion fruit known for its striking appearance and delicious flavour. The fruit is notably larger than common purple varieties, with a smooth, tough rind that turns a deep red to burgundy when ripe. Inside, it is filled with aromatic, golden-orange pulp and black edible seeds. The flavour is a perfect balance of tropical sweetness and refreshing acidity. ‘Panama Red’ is self-fertile, though having bees in the garden will significantly increase your fruit set.
Care Tips
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Position: Requires a position in full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily) with protection from strong winds. It needs a sturdy support structure to climb.
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Climate: Prefers Subtropical and Tropical climates. It is frost-sensitive; in cooler temperate zones, it must be planted in a very sheltered, north-facing “microclimate” (like against a brick wall) to survive winter.
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Soil: Needs rich, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Good drainage is vital, as passion fruit vines are highly susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases in boggy ground.
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Watering: Water deeply and frequently, especially during flowering and fruit development. The soil should stay consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching is highly recommended to keep the shallow roots cool.
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Fertilising: Passion fruit are starving plants. Apply a fertiliser high in nitrogen and potassium (like a citrus or fruit-specific food) in early spring and mid-summer.
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Pruning: Prune in early spring to remove dead wood and thin out overcrowded growth. This encourages new, productive fruiting wood and improves air circulation.
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Harvest: Fruit is ready when it reaches a deep red colour. While many passion fruits are best collected when they fall, ‘Panama Red’ can be picked from the vine when the skin is fully coloured and yields slightly to a gentle squeeze.
