Blue crown fruit is commonly referred to as Blue passion flower and is botanically known as Passiflora caerulea. The fruit may take a back seat to the stunning flower that appears before the fruit mature and ripen. The flower has attracted admirers throughout time and was named “passion flower” by 16th century missionaries in South America, saying the symbolized the death of Christ.

Blue crown fruit is egg-shaped, roughly two inches in diameter with a yellow to orange outer skin when ripe. The inner off-white flesh has small red edible seeds with a subtle sweet and peppery flavor. The flavor is somewhat blackberry-like.

Serving Ideas

Blue crown fruit is a passionfruit and can be eaten as such and used in the same preparations. The inner seeds can be scooped from within, along with the flesh. Seeds can be removed by pushing the passionfruit pulp through cheesecloth and the contents can be used for ice cream, beverages, purees, dressings, etc.

Geography/History

Blue crown fruit is native to the southern countries of South America and is known as Mburucuyá in parts of Paraguay. The tree is very hardy and can handle very low temperatures; it is evergreen in mild climates and can grow back from roots in areas of severe cold. The plant is grown in the southwestern US.

Seasons/Availability

Blue crown fruit is available during the late summer months.