Papaya ‘Red Maradol’ (Carica papaya) - LIVE PLANT

Plant Insights and Care

Propagation Type: Air Layer (air-layered).

Papaya ‘Red Maradol’ is listed under Carica papaya. The guidance below covers growing the plant; flowering and harvest depend on local conditions.

• Sun Exposure: Choose a bright, sunny, wind-sheltered position. Acclimatise nursery plants gradually and protect newly planted roots from overheating.
• Watering: Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain. Keep moisture reasonably steady during growth and fruit development; persistent saturation can damage roots.
• Soil: Use a fertile, freely draining root zone. Avoid deep planting and low spots that collect irrigation water.
• Temperature and Humidity: Papaya needs warmth and is cold sensitive. Very hot weather can disrupt flowers and fruit set; 40–45°C is not a reliable production range.
• Fertilization: Use small, regular applications of a balanced feed during active growth. In alkaline soil, investigate micronutrient deficiency before increasing fertilizer.
• Pruning: Remove dead or diseased leaves without injuring the trunk. Routine topping is unnecessary and may expose the soft stem to decay.
• Growth Rate and Size: A fast-growing, soft-stemmed perennial that can become several metres tall. Fruiting height and timing depend on the selection and growing conditions.
• Pollination: Papayas may be male, female or hermaphrodite. Female flowers need a pollen source; hermaphrodite flowers can self-pollinate. Plant sex is not guaranteed by a variety name alone.

Key Points

• Protect the soft stem and shallow roots from damage.
• Good drainage is essential.
• Confirm flower sex before relying on a single plant for fruit.

Fruit Profile

Maradol papayas are known for substantial fruit with orange-red flesh and a central seed cavity. The skin develops yellow colour during ripening, and the flesh should soften before eating.

Photographs include species reference images; they do not show the exact plant supplied or confirm this cultivar’s fruit appearance.