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So what is a pawpaw? The pawpaw is the largest edible fruit native to America and indigenous to the entire eastern half of America. The oblong shaped fruit, similar to a mango, has green outer skin and is yellow to pinkish inside. It grows 3-6 inches long and ripens to weigh sometimes as much as a pound. Ripe fruit is harvested from mid-August to October and should be soft enough to come off the tree with a gentle squeeze. The ripe pawpaw will have a pronounced perfumed fragrance and sweet taste. Unripe fruit, much like a green banana, remains firm and is astringent to the taste.
So how does it taste? The pawpaw’s highly nutritious flesh will have the consistency of firm custard and a unique flavor, resembling a blend of vanilla, mango, pineapple, and banana. Varieties growing closer to the Mississippi River may have a slightly more melony flavor and pinkish color. It is eaten by slicing the fruit in half and spooning out the custardy middle. It is even better when chilled. In addition, the flesh can be scooped out and frozen (or used fresh) for award winning ice creams and smoothies. The skin and seeds are discarded.
For growers and gardeners, the pawpaw requires two genetically diverse trees for good pollination and heavy fruit set. The pawpaw tree is small and grows in a pyramid shape with long lush green leaves making it appear very tropical. It is a handsome addition to any edible landscape and is a host to Zebra Swallowtail butterflies. It produces its own natural insect repellent so it’s usually unnecessary to spray the trees for bugs. In addition, the trees like a shaded start, but full sun once in the third year of growth.
