Jarilla species, rare papaya relatives (forum)

Jamez7 starts with ...
Hey everyone! I recently obtained and started growing species of the Jarilla genus. As far as I know, these have never been cultivated in Australia before, and probably never even in a domestic setting anywhere in the world. As such, imformation on these species is scarce and incomplete. So I hope to share cultural notes from my growing experiences on this forum, for anyone who's interested. And if anyone actually has already been growing Jarilla, please chime in and share some info on the plants. For anyone who would also like to get a hold of these very rare and exotic plants, I do have excess and plan on selling some off.
Jarilla is a genus with three described species, all of which I am growing:
J. caudata
J. heterophylla
J. chocola

Each species produces unique edible fruits, that are apparently delicious. These are the closest genetic relatives to Carica papaya (common papaya), and studies have suggested that hybridization may be possible between the two genera, which would result in some very interesting plants and fruit. These species also produce underground tubers, and these are also edible like potatoes.
They are native to central America (Mexico and Guatemala), usually at moderate elevation in deciduous forest. They grow actively only for about 5 months of the year; after fruiting they desiccate and remain dormant in their tubers for the dry season.
Right now my plants are growing very vigorously in Melbourne, both in a greenhouse and outside in the elements. J. Caudata and J. heterophylla have a herbaceous scrambling vine-like growth habit. They are happy to run along the ground or use trees and structures for support to grow vertically.
J. Chocola is different in that it has an erect growth habit, looking like a miniature Papaya tree. J. chocola also seems to prefer shade, compared to the other species.
I expect my plants will complete their active growth cycle well before winter, and should be dormant in their tubers by the time Melbourne winter sets in.
So is anyone else out there growing these?

Time: 21st November 2017 9:36pm

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About the Author Jamez7
Melbourne, Brunswick East
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phil@tyalgum says...
J. chocola looks like the pick of the bunch. I haven't ever heard of this genus but they are certainly a valuable addition to the Carica group in this country. I'd be happy to purchase some when they become available.

Time: 22nd November 2017 11:36am

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About the Author TyalgumPhil
Murwillumbah
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Joel15 says...
Hadn't heard of these before, would certainly be interested in obtaining some!

Time: 22nd November 2017 3:27pm

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About the Author Joel15
BRIDGEWATER,5155,SA
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Jamez7 says...
Cool, I didn't realise there were already a few in the counry. No one talks about them!
On the subject of fertility, I know that like most of the Caricaceae, Jarilla species are dioecuous. So not only do you need two seperate plants for fruit, but you need male and female plants. So I'll be selling these in groups of three; so that buyers can have a better chance of getting both sexes.
How are your plants doing for you Linton? Have you noticed any cultural preferences?
I'm attaching some photos of my plants. My 2-3 month old examples of J. chocola and J. caudata, and J. heterophylla seedlings

Regards, James!
Pictures - Click to enlarge

Picture: 1
Picture: 2
Picture: 3
Picture: 4
Picture: 5

Time: 24th November 2017 10:09pm

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About the Author Jamez7
Melbourne, Brunswick East
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Jamez7 says...
Hey all! I'm now selling Jarilla species on Ebay. You can find me as conservation_through_cultivation, or just search Jarilla. I'm releasing them as batches of three plants per sale, as they are dioecuous.

Time: 27th November 2017 8:41pm

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About the Author Jamez7
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Peter91 says...
I would like to try growing J. chocola down here in Adelaide if you have some to spare.

If you could send me an email to peterantoniw@msn.com with details and info I'd appreciate it.

Time: 28th November 2017 8:21am

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About the Author Peter91
NORTH PLYMPTON,5037,SA
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puggleberrygarden says...
Are you selling any jarilla seeds or plants I'd love to buy some from you.

If you nolonger have seeds or seedlings could you tell me how its possible to obtain seeds from other scorces, did you import your seeds

You can email me hammondvanhoren7219@hotmail.com

Time: 3rd June 2018 4:34am

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About the Author puggleberrygarden
adelaide
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mgoul131 says...
Hey Jamez7 I went to ebay but can't find any Jarilla in you store. Do you have any left?

Time: 10th July 2018 7:34am

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About the Author mgoul131
WITHEREN,4275,QLD
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jle10101 says...
Can anyone say how long it takes for Jarilla chocola fruit to ripen (turn red)?
Pictures - Click to enlarge

Picture: 1

Time: 10th September 2019 12:29pm

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About the Author JLE-10
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Xisca says...
I am about to start those 3 plants too. Who can tell their differences? Do they have the same needs in water, sun or shade...
Also their differences in fruit, like the taste. When do they ripen?

Time: 1st September 2021 8:07pm

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About the Author Xisca
Garafia 38787 Tenerife Tenerife
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