Carica lanceolata – Bolivian Papaya Tree, Mountain Papaya

Description

Carica lanceolata is a small, fast-growing, evergreen to semi-evergreen fruiting tree closely related to the common papaya but adapted to cooler high-altitude climates. Typically reaching 3 to 6 meters in height, it develops a slender trunk topped with large, deeply lobed leaves. The tree produces elongated, aromatic fruits with yellow to orange flesh that offer a tangy, refreshing flavor, well suited for fresh eating, preserves, and juices. Native to the Andean highlands of South America, it thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil, showing greater tolerance to cool temperatures than tropical papaya species. It is valued for its ornamental foliage, nutritional fruit, and suitability for subtropical and upland cultivation.