Tarcsio Foltz and Gilberto Franz (both from Brazil) discovered the world's tallest papaya tree, which stands at 14.55 metres (47 feet and 8.83 inches). On September 2, 2021, the tree was authenticated in Nova Aurora, Paraná, Brazil.
Tarcsio noticed the papaya tree on his property was considerably higher than any other he had ever seen early last year. After that, Tarcsio contacted his friend (and former farm owner) Gilberto Franz to use a drone to measure the amazing tree.
After three months, the two decided to properly measure the tree, and the tree's height was verified with the aid of a team of specialists. They learned that the tree on their New Aurora farm was actually the world's tallest papaya tree!
Papaya is a tropical fruit with a sweet flavor comparable to apricot. The fruit is not only eaten raw in Brazil, but it is also used to make ice cream, juice, fruit cocktails, and dessert creams. It is native to tropical and subtropical climates; therefore, it thrives in Brazil's environment, making it one of the world's major papaya producers.
The record holders are pleased of their achievement and wish to spread the word about Nova Aurora across the world. They also urge the people of the city to be grateful and proud of their heritage.
When checking the size of the tree, Tarcsio Foltz and Gilberto Franz hit some roadblocks. They discovered frost on the tree as they prepared to take its measurements, causing it to lose its fruits and leaves.
To be eligible for the record, the tree had to be alive, which meant Tarcsio and Gilberto had to wait nearly four months for it to recover from the frost damage and begin regrowing its leaves.
The papaya tree has a tall trunk and big spirally growing leaves. It takes around three years for the tree to reach maturity and begin producing fruit, which grows in a cluster inside the huge protective leaves.
The previous record holder for the world's tallest papaya tree, which was planted by Jhantu Paul in India, was confirmed on 22 January 2017 and measured an incredible 14.08 m (46 ft 2.33 in).
