Barbadine, also known as giant granadilla, is a tropical fruit that is native to South America and is now grown in many other tropical regions of the world including the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Africa. It is a member of the passionfruit family and its botanical name is Passiflora quadrangularis. It is a large, oblong-shaped fruit that can grow up to 30 centimeters in length and weigh up to 1 kilogram.
The outer shell of barbadine is hard and green when unripe. While it ripens, the skin turns yellow; the flesh becomes softer. It contains white flesh that is sweet and tart with a pleasant, floral smell and a musky flavor. Inside the flesh are numerous small, black seeds that are similar to those of passion fruit. Seeds are edible but can be somewhat bitter but it is often discarded. The flesh commonly eaten raw, used in juices or smoothies, or used as a flavoring in desserts and other dishes.
Wild ancestors
Barbadine is native to South America. Its wild ancestors are believed to have originated in the Amazon rainforest and surrounding areas, although their exact location of origin is uncertain.
The wild ancestors of Barbadine were likely small, non-domesticated plants that were pollinated by bats and other nocturnal animals. Over time, humans began to cultivate these plants for their edible fruit and medicinal properties. Through selective breeding, they were able to develop larger, sweeter fruits with a more pleasant texture.
History
The Barbadine, also known as the Giant Granadilla, is a tropical fruit that is native to Central and South America. Its scientific name is Passiflora quadrangularis and it belongs to the same family as passion fruit.
The Barbadine has a long history of cultivation and use. It was cultivated by the indigenous people of the region for its fruit and medicinal properties. The fruit was believed to have aphrodisiac properties and was used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and respiratory problems.
When the Europeans arrived in the Americas, they were introduced to the Barbadine and brought it back to Europe, where it was grown in botanical gardens and enjoyed by the wealthy. It was also introduced to other tropical regions such as Asia and Africa, where it became a popular crop.
In the Caribbean, the Barbadine is used in various culinary dishes such as juices, sorbets, and desserts. It is also used to make a traditional alcoholic beverage called "ponche de granadilla" in Colombia.
Nowadays, the Barbadine is grown in many tropical regions around the world and is enjoyed for its sweet and tangy flavor as well as its nutritional value.
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