Asimina triloba 'NC-1'

NC-1 Paw paw tree (Asimina triloba 'NC-1') is a unique variety from Canada. It is early ripening and has abundant crops of large, flavourful fruit with light orange flesh. The fruits of this Canadian Pawpaw grow up to 16 cm (6 inches) in length. They begin as yellowish-green fruits, and mature to a dark brown in autumn. Pawpaw fruit has a custard-like texture, and many say it tastes like a mixture of banana, pineapple and mango - a delicious tropical trio right here in Canada!

The ripe fruit of this Paw paw tree can be eaten raw, and is commonly used in pies, preserves, salads, vinaigrettes, and ice cream. Due to the fruit being perishable, we do not often see it fresh in our stores.  Growing it in our home gardens is becoming more popular as people realize how delicious it is.  Harvest your ripe fruit before the raccoons and squirrels do, as they love it too. Do not eat unripe fruit, as it can cause stomach upset.

Asimina triloba 'NC-1' has a rounded crown, and is considered a small tree at 6 m (20 feet) in height. The flowers are interesting, but not showy. The leaves stay green into fall, and turn a bright yellow as autumn progresses. Long-lived, and Hardy to Zone 5a (-29 °C (-20 °F)), NC-1, Paw paw plant survives 20 to 30 years.

NC-1 Pawpaw prefers full sun to partial shade with moist to wet, well-drained soil. For fruit production, at least two different varieties are required for pollination. Consider planting the native Asimina triloba (seedling) or another variety, close by.