Carica papaya - Papaya

The Papaya tree is an exotic fruit tree originating from Mexico that is now widespread throughout the tropical zone of the planet. It is a tree with a large growth that regularly reaches 6m (20ft) in height by 2m (7ft) in width. Its generally single and straight trunk is marked by the scars of the leaves that fall as it grows.

The wide and palmate leaves are gathered at the top of the trunk and are borne on a long petiole. The leaves resemble those of the fig tree. This similarity is also reflected in its Latin name, Carica papaya (the fig tree called Ficus carica).

The male and female flowers are small (+/- 2cm (1in)) and white. They appear all year round.

The oval-shaped fruits called Papayas can reach 40cm (16in) in length. They are fleshy berries whose orange pulp is consumed depending on its ripeness as a vegetable or fruit salad. Fruit production begins as early as the first year.

The Papaya tree is susceptible to frost and should be cultivated in a warm and humid greenhouse all year round. The minimum winter temperature should be 15°C (59°F). In summer, the Papaya tree can be placed on a well-exposed patio.