Mountain Papaya

Mountain papaya is an evergreen softwood tree that’s native to the Andes from southern Colombia to central Chile, but it’s also cultivated in subtropical and cool mountain climates of Southeast Asia and Africa. The tree produces fruits that have soft flesh with many round brown seeds.

When fully ripe, the fruits are slightly tart and acidic with an intense aroma. They’re usually enjoyed fresh or sprinkled with sugar. The fruits are also used to produce jellies and marmalades. Mountain papaya can be stewed and served as dessert, while chunks of the fruit are sometimes preserved in syrup.