Want to be transported to a tropical island? With aromas of lush and juicy fruit, peppery spice, and more, the Papaya strain is the perfect mix of flavor and tranquility. Bursting with a papaya-like scent and a creamy sweetness, you’ll be ready to relax by the beach once you take a hit of this tasty cultivar.
Sound intriguing? Trust us—we know! Learn all about this fresh and fruity strain and ease into its classic indica effects. Read on for a deep dive, including:
- Is the Papaya strain indica or sativa?
- How strong is the Papaya?
- What are the best practices for growing the Papaya strain?
…and so much more! Ready for a tropical vacation? Let’s get rolling!
What Strain Is Papaya?
The Papaya strain first appeared in our bowls and joints courtesy of Nirvana Seeds, the long-running Dutch operation founded by the mysterious globe-trotting cannabis cultivator Mau. Papaya is a spin on the already popular Mango strain through a cross of Citral #13 and Ice #2.
Is the Papaya Strain Sativa or Indica?
Though the terms indica and sativa can help describe the effects of different strains, they’re no longer considered entirely accurate when it comes to cannabis. However, we find that they can help people predict the effects a specific strain should have—those seeking a relaxing, body-centered effect might want to choose a classic indica or indica-leaning hybrid, while those looking for a hit of focus and inspiration might be better off with a sativa or sativa-leaning hybrid.
So, where does the Papaya strain fall? Technically an indica-leaning hybrid, Papaya’s effects will likely impart that classic indica body buzz that tends towards sedation at higher doses. Where do these indica traits come from? As with all strains of cannabis, Papaya’s characteristics draw from its two parent strains:
Citral #13
Look for bright and vibrant citrus flavors and aromas in this indica-dominant hybrid strain. As with its Papaya offspring, the initial rush of energy will quickly morph into a powerful, full-body sedation. This is definitely a strain to choose when you want to just kick back and relax.
Ice #2
Sometimes, a name says it all: Ice is a strain that may make you feel very chill. With such notable strains as Skunk #1, Northern Lights, and Afghani in its genetic line, Ice #2 can dispense a powerful body buzz accompanied by strong sedative effects, perfect for hanging out when you don’t have any plans.
Often Imitated: Other Papaya Strains
What’s the deal with all the Papaya strain imitations? Well, with a strain this serene and delicious, it’s no surprise that it’s become the parent of many delicious and buzzy offshoots, including:
- Papaya Punch
- Papaya Cake
- Papaya Bomb
- Sour Papaya
- Runtz Papaya
But are all of these true Papaya strains? They are! Each combines Papaya with other enticing strains like Purple Punch and Wedding Cake to produce new possibilities in terms of flavor and effects. Of course, if you’re checking out a strain with “Papaya” in the name and not sure of its genetics, ask your friendly budtender for guidance.
How Strong Is Papaya?
Since cannabis is an agricultural product, every crop is somewhat different regarding potency and its specific cannabinoid and terpene contents. That said, you can usually find the Papaya strain at roughly 17%-20% THC. If you’re an experienced cannabis fan, that amount of THC shouldn’t be overwhelming, but if you’re new to cannabis, you should always approach a new strain with the golden rule: start low and go slow—you can always have more, but you can’t have less! Eventually, you’ll find the perfect amount of Papaya for your individual body and mind.
The Papaya strain typically also contains roughly 1% CBG, a rare minor cannabinoid that’s may offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, among other useful qualities. Recent research also suggests that CBG may be a potent and non-intoxicating option when addressing stress.
Strain Impressions: Appearance, Flavor, and Aroma
Some strains have deliberately mysterious-sounding names (what is Cougar Milk, anyway?), but with the Papaya strain, what you see—make that what you smell—is what you get. From the first hit to the last, you’ll get a big hit of ripe papaya on both the nose and tongue. Those flavors are largely due to Papaya’s terpene profile. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give different cannabis strains their specific characteristics. Here are a few of the most prominent terpenes found in the Papaya weed strain:
- Myrcene: Sometimes known as the “mother of terpenes” for its common and central role in cannabis, myrcene can help synergize the actions of other terpenes and even cannabinoids such as THC. Some studies suggest that myrcene may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Limonene: A terpene that’s long been recognized as an all-natural mood-booster, it may diminish THC-induced anxiety and may even impart a generalized antidepressant effect.
- Caryphollene: Besides its characteristic spicy, peppery, and clove-like notes, caryophyllene is associated with potential immune-boosting and pain-killing effects.
- Linalool: A terpene that contributes to lavender’s unmistakable scent, linalool has been shown to impart stress-reducing qualities according to clinical studies.
Appearance-wise, Papaya is known for its vibrant, bright green flowers and vivid orange hairs called pistils, the plant’s female reproductive organ—yes, cannabis plants have sexes—and they add a unique visual appeal to the full sensory experience.
Additionally, as with all high-quality flower, a heavy dusting of tiny silvery “powder” is a sign of healthy trichomes, the glands which are the source of much of the cannabis plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes. We sometimes refer to them as “medicine factories” for the major role they play in the plant’s ecosystem, and the Papaya strain has them in spades.
The Papaya Strain Experience: What to Expect
It’s said there’s a strain for every season and every reason, and if you’re looking to shed the stress of the day, Papaya may just be your top pick. While many of our customers report a brief period of sativa-like stimulation, this tropical-flavored ride quickly mellows into relaxation mode, so the next time you plan to hit the beach, don’t forget to pack this tasty cultivar.
Tips for Growing Papaya
Sadly, the Papaya strain might not be the best choice for newbies with no prior growing experience. Though the sticky flowers that result are loaded with glistening trichomes, many seasoned growers agree that Papaya isn’t the first strain you should try to master. If you decide to chance it, experts recommend the Screen of Green—or SOG—method, creating a canopy by guiding branches to grow through a mesh screen to maximize light, space, and potential yield.
Papaya is a reasonably fast-growing plant with a flowering time of 9 to 11 weeks. Remember that it will require consistent but well-draining access to moisture—a hydroponic system might be the best call here. You’ll also want to provide a balanced nutrient mix, including extra phosphorus during flowering to support bud development.
If you master all these steps and processes, you can expect a healthy yield of roughly 450 to 550 grams per square meter indoors, closer to 400 grams when grown outdoors.
Shop Mission for Your Pick of Fruity Strains
As a fairly classic indica, the Papaya strain delivers a fruit-forward blend of relaxing and euphoric body effects in a deliciously tropical-scented package. With a terpene profile bursting with myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, you may expect an exciting blend of benefits to accompany those alluring fruit flavors.
Ready to take a big bite of fruity Papaya? Start your journey with the Mission dispensary closest to you, and browse our live menus for this tasty cultivar. While you’re at it, head to our informative blog, where you can discover more unique strains, including:
- Runtz Cake
- Cuban Linx
- Gelato 41
- Banana Puddintain
- And more!
If you have more questions about this delicious strain—or any other cannabis-related topics—stop by any of our locations and ask our friendly budtenders for more information. We’re always here to help!
