Papaya Tree Facts Papaya (Carica papaya) is native to Central America and exists in tropical and subtropical areas throughout the world. This large, short-lived perennial plant with a single trunk can reach up to 30 feet (9 m.) at maturity. Palmate leaves are deeply lobed and over 3 feet (.9 m.) in width. There are three different tree types, female plants, male plants and bisexual plants. The female and bisexual plants are the only ones that produce fruit. Depending on the tree type, this fruit is small to medium round or medium to large oblong shape. Fruit flesh is generally yellow, although some red and orange types exist as well. How to Grow a Papaya Tree Growing papaya trees is generally done from seed that is extracted from ripe fruit. If you are using a fruit from a grocery store, it is most likely going to be a bisexual plant. You should plant several seeds per pot to ensure germination. Under full sunlight, seedlings may emerge in about two weeks. Plants can be set out after they are a foot (.3 m.) tall and spaced 8 to 10 feet (2.4-3 m.) apart. The seedlings will flower after five or six months.