Passifloraceae de Jussieu (Ex Kunth) 1817
The family Passifloraceae includes 650 species in 18 genera, of which the only succulent plants are in the genus Adenia. The remaining species include climbing vines and shrubs, of which Passiflora (Passion flowers) are widely cultivated for their large decorative flowers and fruit (granadilla).
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Adenia Forsskål 1775
The genus Adenia includes around 95 species of woody trees, shrubs, herbs, and vines with swollen caudiciform bases to their stems or tuberous roots. Many species have tendrils enabling them to scramble through bushes. Some are protected with thorns. Adenia are dioecious.
Cultivation: Adenia are tender plants requiring heat and full sun. Plants should be watered very sparingly outside their growing season but water can be increased when the plants are in active growth. The deciduous leaves provide a guide to active and resting persiods. Compost should be gritty and free-draining, especially so for species with fleshy roots. Some species can be grown from cuttings, but these are reluctant to develop a caudex.
Some species of Adenia are used by bushmen as sources of hunting poisons and all species should be regarded as poisonous. Toxins include cyanide derivatives and potent lectins.
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