Originally from Latin America, it was brought into New Zealand and began to quickly become established in the wild. This vigorous, perennial woody-climber is an evergreen and has been proven to be difficult to get rid of once established.

Banana passionfruit causes damage by smothering canopies and allowing stronger invasive vines to quickly take over in its place. It is usually seen in open and disturbed forests, on coast lines, cliffs and up taller-growing trees.

This vine has a pink flower approximately 6-8cm wide and bears thin-skinned fruit that ripens to a yellow-orange colour, with sweet edible pulp inside. It is spread by seed dispersal from birds, possums, pigs and humans.

Physical Control

Cut or pull the vine off the plant it is growing up, this can be done all year round. Physical control is better done before fruit development. If possible pull out the roots form the ground.

This plant is listed on the Noxious Plant list for Auckland. It can no longer be propagated and sold in the Auckland region.

Other Treatment

When roots cannot be pulled up, cut the vine back and immediately paint the stump with Cut’N’Paste Metgel. Be careful when using Metgel, as it may effect desirable neighbouring plants.

When using sprays and chemicals always read the label and follow instructions carefully.