History

• The papaya plant has fleshy, five-petaled flowers.
  
  It is believed by most historians that the papaya plant originated in southern Mexico or Central America. However, as traders carried the seeds throughout the world, the papaya became popular in the Bahamas and other areas. From the Bahamas, it came to Florida. While papayas can be grown in greenhouses just about anywhere, Florida is about as far north as it can be grown outdoors.
  
  

Types

• There are two types of papaya. Solo papayas are usually 6 inches long and can weigh as much as a pound. They are green on the outside and orange or pink on the inside. They can be eaten whole and are pear-shaped. Mexican papayas grow to be as much as 2 feet long and can weigh over 10 pounds. They are generally sold in pieces at grocery stores. They are less sweet than Solo papayas and tend to be red or bright orange on the inside.
  
  

Function

• The papaya plant is very sensitive. It likes to grow in areas that are very warm and free from wind. The more sunshine and reflected heat and light they can enjoy the better, as the fruit will be sweeter. Papayas need well-drained soil and do not require pruning, although "pinching" buds can help your papaya plant develop more trunks or stems. Papayas will die quickly in areas that have overnight freezes or where the soil does not drain well.
  
  

Effects

• The fruit and leaves of the papaya contain a digestive enzyme called papain. When these parts of the plants are pulverized by chewing or another process, they can be used to tenderize meat naturally. Many people also use papaya seeds, which are edible, in place of black pepper because they have a similar spicy taste.
  
  

Benefits

• Eating papaya can be good for your health in several ways. Not only does the fruit aid in digestion, it is also rich in carotene, which helps the eyes and vitamin C. Some papaya extracts are even used to treat sports injuries and muscle strains. Many doctors think that the papaya's unique blend and ratio of vitamins C, E and A prevents heart disease and can help lower cholesterol.
  
  

Features

• When you wish to eat a papaya, you should allow it to ripen first. A papaya that is partially or wholly yellow should be left to ripen at room temperature for several days until it is green. Placing the papaya in a brown paper bag with a banana can speed this process. Papayas are often eaten raw and whole, but they are also delicious in salsas and salads.