Carica papaya is native to the tropics of the Americas, perhaps from southern Mexico and neighboring Central America. It was first cultivated in Mexico several centuries before the emergence of the Mesoamerican classical civilizations.
climate
Papaya grows best in warm areas below 500 ft (152 m) elevation. Fruit
production and quality decline at higher elevations, where cooler
temperatures cause flower drop and cat-faced (carpelloidic) fruits.
Papaya can tolerate moderate winds if well rooted. Forty to 60 in (102 to 152
cm) of rainfall evenly distributed throughout the year is adequate for growth.
With higher rainfall, soils should be porous and well drained. Planting on
slopes or on raised hills helps to prevent waterlogging.
soil
Papaya grows well on many types of soil, but they must be adequately
drained. Restricted soil drainage promotes root diseases. Most commercial
production in Hawaii is on porous aa lava. Production on other soil types is
limited to low rainfall areas where restricted drainage is less likely to
cause problems. Heavy clay and pahoehoe lava soils should be avoided.
growing
Papaya is grown from seed. Dry seed may be stored for a year or more in
airtight refrigerated containers. Fresh seeds will usually germinate in 10
to 14 days. Germination can be improved by removing the gelatinous outer
seed coat before drying.
Seeds are sown either in containers or directly in the ground.
harvesting
Papaya leaves may be harvested throughout the growing season and dried for later use.
preserving
Store dried papaya leaf in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.