Latin name - Vasconcellea x heilbornii

Babaco is a hybridized version of a plant called the Mountain Papaya, and is also sometimes referred to as “champagne fruit”.  The fruit appears similar to a papaya, but ripens to a bright yellow and has a pentagonal shape.  Babaco tastes pretty different from a regular papaya, with more of a tangy flavor- think notes of kiwi and pineapple, or lemon sherbet.  It also does not usually have seeds inside like a papaya would. 

The growth habit and care requirements of Babaco are similar to papaya, especially its intolerance of soggy soils.  The roots will rot very quickly if standing water occurs, so be sure to plant in an area that is high and dry.  Babaco plants tend to fruit at a small size, sometimes less than 3 feet tall.  For a unique and flavorful addition to an exotic fruit salad, consider growing Babaco!

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Size: 5-10 feet

Sun Requirements: Full sun

Cold Hardy: 28 degrees

Harvest Season:  Fall/Winter

Watering requirements: Enjoys water but must drain very well to avoid root rot!

Food Forest Layer: Sub Canopy