ST. CROIX PLANT REPORT: 4/20 Confusion or Just Breakfast?
BOTANICAL BLUNDER: A young St. Croix papaya plant (Carica papaya) recently sparked a wave of 4/20-related speculation in a local plant identification group. Despite the palmate, star-shaped leaves that bear a passing resemblance to Cannabis sativa, local experts confirm the only "high" this plant will provide is a high aesthetic for a future fruit salad—anyone attempting to smoke it will be in for a very unwelcome, coughing-filled surprise. (Photo courtesy of Kathy Harrell/Facebook)
By St. Croix Sun Staff
FREDERIKSTED — As the calendar hits April 20, a "poppy show" of botanical confusion has sprouted across local social media groups. With the "flesh being sweaty" and the island heat reaching a fever pitch, some residents are mistaking a common backyard staple for something a bit more... festive.
The ‘Papaya’ Paradox
A recent post in a local gardening group sparked a flurry of 4/20-related jokes after a resident asked for help identifying a young plant with deeply lobed, star-shaped leaves. To the untrained (or perhaps hopeful) eye, the plant shares a passing resemblance to Cannabis sativa.
However, experts—and anyone who hasn't been "seized" by a bottle of rum—can confirm this is actually a young Papaya plant (Carica papaya).
How to Spot the Difference
While both plants have "palmate" leaves that radiate from a central point, the similarities end there:
The Leaves: Papaya leaves are broad, smooth, and can eventually grow up to two feet across—far larger than any leaf Elon Musk has ever sampled on camera.
The Structure: Young papayas grow from a single, fleshy green stalk that eventually becomes a hollow trunk. Cannabis is a branching, woody herb.
The Surprise: If someone is planning to celebrate 4/20 with this plant, they are in for an unwelcome surprise. Smoking papaya leaves provides exactly zero euphoria and a 100% chance of a "poppy show" coughing fit.
