Papaya Carica papaya (F)
ABOUT
The papaya, also known as the papaw or pawpaw, is a tropical plant commonly grown for its edible fruit. It has a single, upright trunk with a smooth, grayish bark. At the top of the trunk, there's a crown of large, lobed leaves. These leaves are quite expansive, with a deep green color, and are spirally arranged around the top portion of the trunk. The leaves also have long petioles, which can make them appear to float or flutter above the trunk on breezy days. The flowers of the papaya are usually five-petaled and can vary in color from white to yellow or even orange. They grow directly from the trunk, which is a characteristic called cauliflory. Depending on the gender of the plant—since papayas can be male, female, or hermaphrodite—the structure and appearance of the flowers may differ slightly. The fruit is perhaps the most striking feature, hanging in clusters close to the trunk. These oval to pear-shaped fruits can be large, with a green skin that turns yellow or orange as it ripens. The flesh inside is a vibrant orange, yellow, or red, with a central cavity filled with numerous small, round, black seeds. The fruit's flesh is soft and juicy when ripe and is enjoyed for its sweet, tropical flavor.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Caricaceae.
Synonyms
Papaya, Pawpaw, Melon Tree, Papaw, Mamao, Tree Melon.
Common names
Carica peltata, Carica posoposa, Papaya carica, Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis, Vasconcellea pubescens.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Carica papaya is papaya. Papaya is generally not toxic to humans when the fruit is ripe. However, the unripe or green papaya fruit, as well as other parts of the plant like the leaves and seeds, contain a latex substance that has high levels of papain and chymopapain. These enzymes can cause irritation and an allergic reaction in some people. Ingesting the latex can lead to symptoms such as severe stomach irritation, esophageal perforations, and complications in people with latex allergies. The seeds have been used in traditional medicine and are sometimes eaten in small quantities, but high doses can be toxic due to the presence of benzyl isothiocyanate.
To pets
For pets, particularly dogs and cats, papaya is generally not toxic, and the ripe fruit can be a healthy treat in moderation. However, similar to humans, the unripe fruit, leaves, and seeds contain papain and chymopapain that can cause intestinal irritation. If a pet ingests a large amount of unripe papaya or other parts of the plant, it can experience an upset stomach or more severe gastrointestinal distress. Additionally, the seeds can be harmful in large quantities, so it is best to keep pets away from these parts of the papaya plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
16-33 feet (5-10 meters)
Spread
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Central America
Benefits
General Benefits- Nutritious: Papaya is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as antioxidants that are important for maintaining good health.
- Digestive Aid: The fruit contains an enzyme called papain that helps digest proteins and can support digestive health.
- Hydration: Papaya has a high water content, which helps to keep the body hydrated.
- Low in Calories: Papaya is a low-calorie fruit, making it a good option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
- Source of Fiber: With its high dietary fiber content, papaya promotes a healthy digestive tract and can aid in regular bowel movements.
- Eye Health: Papaya contains carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health and may protect against macular degeneration.
- Skin Care: Applied topically, papaya can be beneficial for skin care due to its vitamin A content and exfoliating properties from the enzyme papain.
- Flavorful Culinary Ingredient: Papaya is a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to desserts, adding a tropical flavor.
Medical Properties- Digestive Enzyme Source: Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that aids in the digestion of proteins.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Papain and chymopapain, enzymes found in papaya, have been associated with reducing inflammation.
- Antioxidant Properties: Papaya is rich in vitamins C and E as well as beta-carotene, which have antioxidant properties.
- Antiparasitic Activity: The seeds of papaya have been used to expel intestinal parasites.
- Wound Healing: Papain is also used topically in ointments to promote the removal of dead tissue and aid in wound healing.
- Menstrual Pain Relief: Papaya is traditionally used to relieve menstrual pain due to its possible uterine muscle relaxation properties.
- Immune Support: The high content of vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin C, may support the immune system.
- Dermatological Uses: Papain is used in topical preparations for the treatment of cuts, rashes, stings, and burns.
- Anti-tumor Properties: Some research suggests that papaya leaf extract may have potential anti-cancer properties.
- Gastroprotection: Some studies indicate papaya may help protect the stomach lining and prevent gastric ulcers.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Papaya leaves can be used as a natural meat tenderizer. The enzymes present in the leaves help break down proteins, making the meat softer and easier to cook.
- The sap of the papaya tree is used as a base for chewing gums. Its latex-like quality gives the gum its chewy texture.
- Dried papaya seeds are sometimes used as a black pepper substitute. Once dried and ground, they have a spicy flavor which can add a unique taste to various dishes.
- Papaya fruit is used in making pet food to add a natural source of vitamins and enhance flavor for pets like dogs and cats.
- The fibrous nature of papaya plants allows for their use in making ropes and twine, especially in traditional and small-scale settings.
- Papaya seed oil is used in the cosmetics industry, particularly in products like lotions, creams, and shampoos for its hydrating properties.
- Unripe papaya fruit can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics. The latex sap provides a yellow to greenish hue.
- The light wood of the papaya tree, known as "papaya wood", is used in the manufacture of economical furniture and wooden crates because it is easy to carve and is lightweight.
- Papaya leaves can serve as a wrapping material for cooking, adding a subtle flavor to the food while keeping it moist during steaming or grilling.
- In some cultures, papaya leaves are woven into plates or bowls as a sustainable, biodegradable alternative to plastic dishes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe papaya tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe papaya is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fertility: Papaya, especially Carica papaya (F) which is the female plant, is often associated with fertility due to its abundant fruit production and the ease with which it propagates.
- Health and Healing: Papaya is rich in vitamins and enzymes, which has made it a symbol of health and healing in various cultures that recognize its nutritional benefits.
- Transformation: The process of a papaya fruit's maturation, from green to ripe, represents change and transformation, symbolizing personal growth and evolution.
- Tropical Abundance: The papaya tree, with its lush growth and generous yield, is symbolic of the abundance and the life-giving sustenance of the tropics, where it thrives.
WaterThe papaya tree should be watered regularly and deeply, ensuring even moisture for healthy growth. Young trees need watering once a week, using approximately 2 gallons per tree, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. During the hot season or in dry climates, watering frequency may need to be increased. Mature trees should be watered every two weeks with a similar amount, provided there is no significant rainfall. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it's important to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
LightPapaya trees thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. They should be planted in a spot that receives unobstructed sunlight throughout the day, away from buildings or trees that could cast shade. Morning sunlight is particularly beneficial as it helps dry dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
TemperaturePapaya trees require warm temperatures, with ideal conditions ranging between 70°F to 90°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 60°F, but temperatures below this can lead to slow growth and possible damage. They are not frost-tolerant, and exposure to temperatures below 32°F will likely kill the tree.
PruningPruning papaya trees is necessary to remove dead or diseased limbs and promote fruit production. It should be done carefully to avoid harming the trunk, which can be susceptible to infection. Prune in the late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Pruning frequency generally depends on the removal of damaged limbs and shaping of the tree, which may not be required annually.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPapaya thrives in well-draining soil, ideally with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. A mix with equal parts peat, sand, and loam is often recommended for optimal growth and fruit production.
RepottingPapaya trees, also known as papayas, should be repotted every 18 to 24 months, ideally during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Humidity & MistingPapayas prefer moderate to high humidity levels, typically around 50-70%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow papaya in a large pot with drainage, in a warm and sunny spot.
Outdoor
Plant papaya in full sun, protect from wind, and ensure good soil drainage.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Carica papaya, commonly known as the female papaya plant, starts with seed germination, occurring when conditions are warm and moist, which can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months. After germination, a seedling emerges and develops into a small plant with characteristic large, lobed leaves. The plant continues to grow rapidly, and within 6-12 months, it reaches its reproductive stage where it develops flowers. Female papaya trees produce ovary-containing flowers that, if pollinated by pollen from male or hermaphrodite papayas, will develop into the papaya fruit. The fruit matures on the tree and, once ripe, can be harvested, completing the life cycle if seeds from the fruit are planted. The life span of a papaya plant is generally short, ranging from 3 to 5 years, after which the plant's productivity decreases, and it may need replacement.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the papaya plant is through seeds. Papaya seeds are typically sown directly where the plant is intended to grow, as they can be sensitive to transplanting. The best time to propagate papaya by seeds is in late winter or early spring, ensuring that the soil temperatures are warm, ideally between 70-90°F (21-32°C). For successful germination, fresh seeds are cleaned of their gelatinous coating and then sown 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) deep in well-drained, rich soil, spaced about 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters) apart to allow for future growth. It takes about a couple of weeks for the seeds to germinate, and the seedlings will require ample sunlight and adequate moisture as they develop.