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Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program

2020



# All About Pawpaws

Sheri Crabtree, Horticulture Research and Extension Associate

Jeremy Lowe, Horticulture Research Associate

Dr. Kirk Pomper, Interim Dean, College of Agriculture, Communities, and the Environment, Land Grant Director

## What is a Pawpaw?

• Pawpaw is a native tree fruit that is found in the forest understory in Kentucky.

• The fruit's flavor is like a tropical blend of mango and banana.

• Trees can be grown in full sun in orchards.

• This is a new unique crop for Kentucky farmers.

• George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Daniel Boone, and Lewis and Clark ate pawpaws.

## Growing Pawpaws

• Small tree, 15-20 feet tall.

• Plant trees 8-10 feet apart.

• Seedlings take 7-8 years to produce fruit; grafted trees produce fruit in 3-4 years.

• Few pests and/or diseases; can be grown organically.

• Pollinated by flies and beetles.

• Trees fruit late August to early October.

• Recommended varieties include: KSU-Atwood\circledR, KSU-Benson\circledR, NC-1, Overleese, Sunflower, Shenandoah, Wabash, Potomac, Susquehanna.

## What Can You Do with Pawpaws?

• Eat the fruit fresh from the tree.

• The green skin and row of large seeds are inedible; soft yellow-orange flesh is the part you eat.

• Fruit is nutritious and high in antioxidants.

• Baking recipes; can be used as a substitute for banana.

• Process into ice cream or jam.

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Questions: kysu.edu/pawpaw

sheri.crabtree@kysu.edu