(Maracuyá, Passiflora edulis, )
A passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) variety that grows wild in the province of Misiones in the Parana Forest of northeastern Argentina, mburucuya is distinguished by bright green leaves, white flowers, and shallow roots. This perennial climbing plant bears edible yellow or purple berries which are oval or spherical and contain a mucilaginous, juicy pulp with numerous seeds.
The flowering period depends on the weather and latitude, and it typically takes place in spring or fall, although it can sometimes last even for up to 9 months in a row. The fruit of this plant can be consumed fresh or it can be processed into a golden-yellow-colored fruit juice with a distinctive aroma and flavor.
Although this fruit and its juice have long been a part of the local people’s diet, during recent years, there’s been a marked decrease in mburucuya’s traditional consumption. Due to gradual loss of interest in this native fruit, numerous local organizations and agencies have been making efforts to promote mburucuya and preserve the knowledge of its traditional uses.
Products featuring this fruit are sold in shops and at local fairs in the area.
