Ripe Pawpaw: A Delicious and Unique Fruit

Pawpaws are a type of fruit that is often overlooked, but they are definitely worth trying. Native to the eastern United States, pawpaws are a member of the Annonaceae family, which includes custard apples and other tropical fruits. Despite their tropical origins, pawpaws are actually a temperate fruit that thrives in the cool climates of North America.

One of the most interesting things about pawpaws is their unique method of pollination. Unlike many other fruits, pawpaws require cross-pollination to set fruit. This means that they need pollen from another pawpaw tree to fertilize their flowers. This process can be difficult to achieve in the wild, as the trees are often isolated and there may not be a sufficient number of pollinators present.

Fortunately, hand pollination is possible and can be effective. This involves transferring pollen from one pawpaw flower to another, which requires some labor but can result in a bountiful harvest. In ideal conditions, a single pawpaw tree can produce up to 25-50 pounds of fruit per year.

Pawpaws are also self-incompatible, which means that they cannot pollinate their own flowers. This is because the flowers have dark, maroon-colored petals and a weak, unpleasant aroma, which is thought to be an adaptation to attract specific types of pollinators.

Despite the challenges of pollination, pawpaws can thrive in the right conditions. They prefer deep, rich soils and full sun to partial shade. In their natural habitat, they often grow as understory trees or shrubby thickets, where they can benefit from the shade of larger trees.

Pawpaws are also a great choice for butterfly gardens, as they are the exclusive larval host plant of zebra swallowtails (Eurytides marcellus). They are also suitable for edible landscapes due to their attractive pyramidal growth form, small tree size, and vibrant yellow fall color.

In terms of hardiness, pawpaws are relatively adaptable. They can grow in USDA Zones 5-8 and have a slow growth rate that requires 3-4 years of growth before they produce fruit. In South Carolina, it's best to avoid coastal climates due to the tree's need for winter chilling, although some selections from its southern range may only require 400-600 chill hours.

Overall, pawpaws are a unique and delicious fruit that is worth trying. With their rich, creamy flavor and soft, buttery texture, they're sure to become a favorite among fruit enthusiasts. Whether you grow them yourself or try them at a local farmer's market, be sure to give pawpaws a taste – your taste buds will thank you!

Ripe pawpaw