Passiflora suberosa, commonly known as Inkberry, is a tropical climbing plant native to Central and South America. Renowned for its rapid growth and adaptability to various environments, it thrives in botanical collections such as the Au Bois Vert Botanical Garden, located in Ivato near Antananarivo. This passionflower is distinguished by its glossy leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers, which attract pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies. Its fruit consists of small, spherical berries that turn blackish when ripe, hence its common name.
Passiflora suberosa, or Inkberry, flourishes primarily in tropical and subtropical climates. At Au Bois Vert, it enhances the garden’s biodiversity while providing a lush and tranquil setting for visitors to the hotel and lodge. Hardy and versatile, it grows both in open ground and in pots, making it an ideal species for adorning pergolas, walls, or fences. In its natural habitat, it is often found in light woodland areas, along forest edges, or in cultivated spaces, where it can sometimes become invasive.
Within the Ivato botanical garden, Passiflora suberosa serves as a living example of the crucial role that climbing plants play in shaping green spaces. It embodies a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality, enriching the ecosystem while promoting pollination.
Plant use
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Passiflora suberosa has a range of uses, both medicinal and practical. Its leaves and fruits are valued in traditional medicine, particularly in South America. Leaf infusions are commonly used to ease stomach discomfort and mild inflammations. The fruit, though small and sometimes considered bland, is edible and appreciated in certain cultures. Botany enthusiasts at Bois Vert will recognise its potential as a versatile plant. In a landscaped setting, it provides natural shade and serves as a habitat for numerous local species of insects and birds. This feature is especially valued in the botanical garden, where biodiversity is key to offering a unique experience for visitors, whether they are staying at the hotel or dining at the establishment’s restaurant. Finally, its graceful appearance makes it an ideal decorative plant for tropical gardens such as those at Bois Vert in Antananarivo. Whether in a natural setting or incorporated into an urban space, Grain d’encre brings a touch of greenery and vibrancy.
Key information
| Common name | Inkberry |
| Scientific name | Passiflora suberosa |
| Origin | Central and South America |
| Natural habitat | Tropical forests, open areas and fringes |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | All year round in tropical climates |