Papaya at the back yard.
Common Names: Papaya, Papaw or Paw Paw (Australia), Mamao (Brazil), Tree Melon.
Native to southern Mexico and neighboring Central America. It is now present in every tropical and subtropical country.
Papayas have exacting climate requirements for vigorous growth and fruit production. They must have warmth throughout the year and will be damaged by light frosts. Brief exposure to 32° F is damaging and prolonged cold without overhead sprinkling will kill the plants.
Cold, wet soil is almost always lethal. Cool temperatures will also alter fruit flavor. Papayas make excellent container and greenhouse specimens where soil moisture and temperature can be moderated.
