Passionfruit, Golden Bellapple

Passiflora laurifolia, a member of the Passifloraceae family, is a tropical American species that has become naturalized in other regions. It is commonly known as water lemon, Jamaican honeysuckle, golden bellapple, pomme liane (in Martinique & Guadeloupe), and orange lilikoi (yellow lilikoi or simply lilikoi is the name given to Passiflora edulis v. flavicarpa for the valley where it first grew in Hawaii). This species cannot tolerate frost due to its tropical origins.

Although water lemon is not extensively cultivated, its fruits are typically available in markets where the vine grows in the wild. The fruit is medium-sized, ovoid, about 2 inches (5.1 cm) in length with a diameter of 3 inches (7.6 cm), and has a green or deep orange skin with white-yellow, juicy pulp that has an excellent, mild, perfumed taste without the tartness of the common Passionfruit.

Water lemon grows on a vigorous vine up to 30 feet long and is better suited to slightly humid climates. The vine is not particular about soil or water requirements, except for preferring ground moisture year-round. It can be propagated by cuttings, but is almost always grown from seeds. Bottom-heating the seeds at 70-80 °F (21-27 °C) can result in germination in 1-2 weeks, while at lower temperatures, seeds can take up to 10 weeks to germinate.

The fruits of water lemon are eaten fresh or used in drinks and beverages. Although it is not widely known outside its native regions, it is highly valued for its delicious taste and juicy pulp.