Mountain Paw Paw
Also known as Mountain Papaya or Wild Papaya, this tropical and subtropical fruit is native to Central and South America. With a long history of traditional medicinal use by indigenous communities where it was used for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. The fruit is sweet and tropical with a mild, pleasant taste that has a subtle melon-tropical flavour. Unripe fruit is more tangy and suited to savoury dishes and salads.
Plant in a well-drained soil. Surprisingly drought tolerant once established, plants prefer regular water while young. Naturally growing in cool tropical to subtropical climates (10-28 degrees C), provide adequate protection in cold climates by growing in pots or planting against a sheltered north facing wall for radiant heat. More cold tolerant than common Paw Paw, while Mountain Paw Paw can withstand light frosts, temperatures below 2 degrees C can cause plant death.