Description

• The papaya plant has an erect branchless trunk 6-20 fttall, and a palm like head of foliage at the top.
• The trunk remains somewhat succulent and soft wooded, and never develops true bark.
• The leaves are deeply incised and lobed, up to 24 in across and borne on 24 in petioles.
• The flower of papaya are usually white and small.

Uses

• The unripe green fruit is often eaten cooked due to its latex
• The ripe fruit of the papaya is usually eaten raw, without skin or seeds. The black seeds of the papaya are edible and have a sharp, spicy taste.
• The raw fruit can be ripened by placing it in the sun. The young leaves, flowers, and stems can be prepared by boiling with water changes.