Mexican Papaya

Mexican Papaya's or Maradol Papaya's are one of the most popular tropical fruits and one of the easiest to grow. Large fruit that can weight over 4 lbs. are produced in clusters just under the canopy of the tree. The skin is smooth and colored in an attractive mix of green, yellow, red, orange and pink. The flesh is red to a mix of orange and yellow. The flavor is sweet and rich with a slightly musky taste. The fruit is popular for fresh eating, sliced or mixed into salads. The many ways Mexican Papayas are prepared is almost limitless. Great in Salsas, cooked into popular central and South American dishes, prepared in smoothies, ice cream, and jams. Also dried to use at a later time. The Mexican Papayas are a most nutrient rich food source and all parts of the Papaya are eatable from the skin to the seeds. The fruit is harvested firm and allowed to ripen to soft ripe at room temperature at which time the fruit is consumed. Very sensitive to cold weather the Papaya needs a consistent warm climate to do well outside. Typically zone 10. The plants also need perfect drainage as they do not tolerate any standing water around the roots. Papaya's make the perfect house plant with the beautiful foliage so make good indoor outdoor plants in pots in colder climates The Mexican Papaya requires a male pollinator. It is best to plant 3 plants to ensure pollination.