Asimina triloba Potomac® PETERSON™

Potomac pawpaw (Asimina triloba Potomac® PETERSON™) is an exceptionally fleshy variety prized for its sweet, rich flavour. Fruits typically weigh 340 g (¾ lb) or more and boast an impressive flesh-to-seed ratio, making them among the highest-quality pawpaws available. Potomac pawpaw has a banana/mango/like flavour, a smooth, custard-like texture, and medium-yellow flesh. Enjoy the fruit fresh, in salads, or use it in preserves, pies, vinaigrettes, and ice cream.

You will rarely find pawpaws in grocery stores, as the fruit is delicate, does not ship well, and has a short shelf life.

‘Potomac’ is a PETERSON™ Pawpaw, a sister selection to ‘Susquehanna’. Pawpaw trees are slow growing with a pyramidal habit, reaching heights of up to 6 m (20 ft). Potomac paw paw tree grows very upright and is less spreading than most cultivars. Six-petalled, purple-brown flowers bloom in May to June. While not showy, they are quite distinctive. The tree’s tropical-looking elliptical green leaves can reach 30 cm (1 ft) in length and turn a bright yellow before dropping in autumn.

Potomac paw paw trees typically begin bearing fruit within two to three years, with mango-shaped fruits ripening from September to October. Be sure to harvest promptly, as squirrels and raccoons are quick to claim them!

A North American native, pawpaw is hardy to zone 5a : -29 °C (-20 °F). Despite its tropical appearance, there is no need to make space for it indoors during winter!

Potomac paw paw tree, is a low-maintenance and prefers well-drained, moist to wet soils. Best fruit production occurs in full sun, though the tree will tolerate partial shade.

For fruit set, cross-pollination is required. Plant two different seedlings or cultivars nearby; native Asimina triloba or ‘Mango’ pawpaw are good companions. Pawpaw trees typically live 20–30 years, providing many seasons of delicious fruit.