Paw Paw
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Landscaping
A highly ornamental sub-tropical plant ideal around the courtyard where the aroma of the fruit can be appreciated. Large distinguished evergreen leaves up to 60cm across and deeply lobed. There is a coating of hairs on the underside of the leaves.
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Culinary & Nutrition
Mountain Paw Paw can be eaten fresh or cooked, usually baked or boiled. You can also use it as a meat tenderiser. It can be made into desserts, added to ice cream, or savoury dishes, such as soup or stew. The fruit contains vitamins A, B, C and iron.
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Growing Conditions
Found naturally in shady conditions but performs well in full sun once established (Does well in humid conditions). Protect from wind and frost when young. Not fussy about soil conditions but doesn't like wet feet. A deep fertile free, draining soil is preferred. Mountain Paw Paw is drought tolerant.
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Paw Paw Red ‘Army’ is not just a delicious tropical fruit, but also has high ornamental value. often planted around courtyards where the aroma of the fruit can be enjoyed. Relatively fast growing with a rounded head, large deep lobed leaves reach up to 60cm across. Flowers form on the main stem from autumn to early winter , in tropical regions it could flower all year. Paw Paw Red Army can easily be grown in a large pot or in a warm, sheltered spot with good drainage. Mulching with organic matter will be beneficial and keep moisture in the soil as well as enriching it. Fertiliser regularly (every 2-3 months) with an all purpose fruit tree fertiliser (slightly higher in Potassium - K), water well through the summer months. Paw paw Red Army is self-fertile with a high yield. It can be trimmed straight after the fruit has been picked. Growing in a container will also contain the size. has a resistance to Papaya Ringspot Virus and if well watered in summer and regularly fertilised does not seem susceptible to pests and disease. Paw Paw tend to have a tap root and does not have an invasive root system.
The fruit which can grow to 80cm long is green in colour and can be harvested when turning a slightly lighter colour. Its flesh is sweet and reddish in colour, with contrasting red seed. Fruit can be used unripe and turned into chutneys or added to soups and is excellent as a meat tenderiser. Pick fresh from the tree when ripe, it’s delicious, or add to dessert, ice cream or savoury dishes. The seeds are also edible and have a peppery spicy flavour. High in vitamin A, for good eye sight, vitamin B for healthy red blood cells and iron to keep energy levels high.
Carica papaya ‘Red Army’