The HPIA had the non-exclusive patent rights to propagate “Rainbow” papaya seed. That patent has expired. We no longer produce seeds for the industry. We have trained our grower members how to produce their own seed correctly so as to retain the virus resistance and protect the industy from virus infection. The seed contains the gene to protect the papaya plant from “PRV” (Papaya Ringspot Virus). It is an F1 cross between Kapoho Solo and the Sun-Up varieties. It produces an orange fleshed fruit typically just over one pound in weight that produces excellent fruit in the district of Puna on Hawaii Island. The patent prohibits distribution of seed outside the State of Hawaii. To order seed from the HPIA please contact Eric Weinert at the HPIA (808-896-2610 or hawaiipapayaindustryassn@gmail.com). You can arrange payment and a time to pick up your seed with Eric.
HPIA currently has an agreement with the University of Hawaii CTHAR to distribute Rainbow seed produced by the University. You may order up to 5 ounces of seed per acre. Payment shall be made upon delivery of seed. Cost per ounce of Rainbow seed is: $90 for Members of HPIA in good standing and $180 for non-members. The cost of an annual HPIA grower membership is $100 per year. We are currently selling seed to members at cost (no markup).
The inventory of seed was produced in 2022. Recent germination tests have shown excellent germination. If you are interested in producing your seed please contact us so that it is done correctly, using the correct cultivars so that the integrity of the “Rainbow” variety remains and the virus protection continues to be excellent.