Papaya
Mexican Papaya
The largest variety in both the size of fruit & the plant itself. The upright plants can grow 15 to 20 feet tall, while the fruit can weigh up to 10 lbs. These are the most common type of Papaya that is grown in our area. The flavor of Mexican Papaya is sweet & somewhat like a Cantaloupe.
Hawaiin (Solo) Papaya
Not native to Hawaii, but they were developed there. The fruit & plants are smaller than the Mexican varieties (they grow only to 8 feet tall), however the flavor is often sweeter & more intense. These are the least cold hardy Papayas. Hawaiian Papayas are excellent choices for growing in containers.
Babaco Papaya
A separate species Carica pentadra & are native to the Andes of Ecuador. They are like the Hawaiian Papayas in stature however they are even smaller (growing to 6 feet). They produce at a young age with sweet, tasty fruit up to 10lbs. This is the coldest tolerant of the Papayas.