papaya
Carica papaya
RHS AGM 2021
USDA zones10 to 12
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size6 to 20 feet tall3 to 15 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Yellowish-white
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Papaya (Carica papaya) is a tree for borders and containers. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 10 and warmer, down to about 30°F (-1°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes full sun and average to moist, sandy or loamy soil. Yellowish-white flowers open through the year, and they attract butterflies, bees, and birds.
Pairs well with Avocado, Lantana, Red ginger, and Queen palm.
Native range
South America.