Babaco, Mountain Papaya (Vasconcellea × heilbornii)
Regular price $24.95Babaco, also known as the Mountain Papaya or champagne fruit, is a tropical/subtropical fruit tree native to Ecuador. A member of the Caric aceae family, it is related to the Dwarf Red Lady Papaya, however is far more cold-tolerant. Container friendly and very fast growing, the Babaco is a highly productive fruit tree with a speedy summer growing season and a year-round harvest.
On a tree that looks like your average papaya, this Babaco tree boasts a signature fruit that’s like no other papaya. Juicy, slightly-acidic and sweet, when fully ripe, it resembles a strawberry-pineapple-citrus flavor. Bright yellow when ripe, the seedless fruit bears flesh that is traditionally skinned, chopped, and enjoyed heated, with sugar and cinnamon. The antioxidant rich Babaco is full of vitamins A, C, and E and can add a nutritious boost to anything from juices and smoothies to a tropical dessert.
Grows up to 8 feet tall. Can be harvested year-round. Likes full sun. Is self-fertile. Grows very fast!
Plant Type:
Tropical/Subtropical Evergreen Fruit Tree
Harvest Season:
Year-round
Mature Size:
6-12 ft.
Soil & Moisture:
Grows best in sandy, well-draining soil. They love water but hate water logged roots, so make sure to plant your Papaya trees in soil with good drainage. Drought tolerant once established.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Very Fast!
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 (frost protection until established); Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our Red Lady Papaya trees are grown from seed and are capable to produce fruit in less than a year.
