Asimina triloba KSU Atwood™

Atwood Pawpaw (Asimina triloba KSU - Atwood™) is an early-ripening variety noted for its exceptionally heavy crops, producing up to 150 or more fruits per mature tree. This selection is especially prized for the rich, delicious flavour of its fruit and was the first variety released from the unique breeding program at Kentucky State University.

The unique flavour of pawpaw fruit is often described as a blend of banana, pineapple, and mango, with a smooth, custard-like texture. It can be eaten fresh, added to salads, or used in preserves, pies, vinaigrettes, and ice cream. This delicacy is rarely found in grocery stores, as the fruit is fragile and does not ship or store well.

KSU Atwood pawpaw tree is slow growing with a pyramidal shape, reaching heights of up to 6 m (20 ft). Six-petalled, purplish-brown flowers bloom in May and June. While not showy, KSU Atwood Pawpaw plant is quite intriguing. The tropical-looking, elliptical green leaves can grow up to 30 cm (1 ft) long and turn a bright yellow before dropping in autumn.

Pawpaws typically begin bearing fruit within two to three years. The mango-shaped fruit ripens from September to October, with KSU Atwood often ripening earlier. Harvest fruit as soon as it is ready to avoid losses to squirrels and raccoons. Pawpaw tree is native to North America, and cultivars are hardy to zone 5a : -29 °C (-20 °F). Trees prefer well-drained, moist to wet soils. Best fruit production occurs in full sun, though plants will also grow in partial shade.

Although pawpaw is a very low-maintenance tree, cross-pollination is required. Plant two different seedlings or cultivars nearby for best results; native Asimina triloba or Asimina triloba ‘Potomac’ are excellent companions. KSU Atwood pawpaw plants typically have a lifespan of 20–30 years.

Enjoy this tropical-looking plant and fruit—without the hassle of bringing it indoors for winter!