All About the Pawpaw

History
The American pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is a unique and lesser-known fruit tree native to North America. It has a rich history that dates back to the time of Native American tribes, and it has played a role in the culinary and horticultural traditions of the region. Here's a brief history of the American pawpaw:

1. Native American Use: The pawpaw has been an important food source for indigenous peoples in North America for centuries. Native American tribes such as the Cherokee, Osage, and Miami are known to have used the fruit as a food source. They consumed it fresh, dried it for preservation, and sometimes used it in cooking.
2. Early European Explorers: When European settlers arrived in North America, they encountered the pawpaw and began to incorporate it into their diets. However, it didn't gain the same level of popularity as other fruits like apples and peaches.
3. Lewis and Clark Expedition: The American pawpaw gained some recognition during the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806). Meriwether Lewis, one of the expedition's leaders, documented the fruit in his journals, and the explorers relied on it as a food source during their journey.
4. Horticultural Interest: In the 19th century, there was growing interest in cultivating the American pawpaw for its unique flavor and potential as a commercial fruit. Several cultivars were developed during this time, including the 'Davis,' 'Prolific,' and 'Wilson.' However, the pawpaw never became a major commercial crop, in part due to its relatively short shelf life and limited adaptability to different climates.
5. Contemporary Cultivation: Today, the American pawpaw is still cultivated, and there is a renewed interest in this native fruit. It's grown by small-scale farmers, home gardeners, and enthusiasts who appreciate its tropical-like flavor, which is often described as a cross between banana, mango, and melon. Efforts are being made to select and breed improved pawpaw varieties for better production and fruit quality.
6. Conservation Efforts: Conservationists recognize the ecological importance of the American pawpaw as a native tree species. It serves as a host plant for the zebra swallowtail butterfly (Eurytides marcellus), which lays its eggs on the leaves, making it an essential part of the ecosystem.

In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in sustainable and locally grown foods, which has contributed to the American pawpaw's resurgence in popularity. While it may not be as well-known as other fruits, its historical and cultural significance, as well as its unique flavor, make it a noteworthy part of American horticultural heritage.
Flavor
The taste of a pawpaw is often described as a unique and complex blend of tropical flavors. People often liken it to a cross between several different fruits, with its own distinct twist. Here are some common flavor descriptors for the pawpaw:

1. Banana: Pawpaws are frequently compared to bananas due to their creamy, custard-like texture and somewhat similar flavor. However, the pawpaw is generally milder and less intense than a ripe banana.
2. Mango: The pawpaw's taste is often said to have hints of mango, with sweet, fruity notes that evoke the tropical fruitiness of mangoes.
3. Melon: Some individuals detect subtle melon-like undertones in the pawpaw's flavor profile, which contribute to its overall sweetness and juiciness.
4. Citrus: There are occasional hints of citrusy notes, such as a mild, tangy undertone, which add complexity to the fruit's taste.
5. Vanilla or Butterscotch: Pawpaws are known for their hints of vanilla or butterscotch, which can provide a creamy, dessert-like quality to the flavor.
6. Custard or Pudding: Many describe the texture of pawpaw flesh as custard-like, and the flavor often reflects this creamy, dessert-like quality.

It's essential to note that the taste of a pawpaw can vary slightly between different varieties and levels of ripeness. Some may find the flavor more intense and others milder, depending on the specific fruit.
The pawpaw's unique flavor, combined with its smooth and creamy texture, makes it a sought-after fruit among enthusiasts who appreciate its distinctive tropical taste. However, because it is a relatively rare and seasonal fruit, it may not be readily available in all regions, which only adds to its mystique and allure.
Harvest
The best time to harvest pawpaws depends on several factors, including the variety of pawpaw, your location, and local climate conditions. However, there are some general guidelines to help you determine when pawpaws are ready for harvest:

1. Fruit Maturity: Pawpaws should be harvested when they are fully ripe, as they do not ripen well off the tree. The fruit is typically ready for harvest in late summer to early fall, usually between August and September in many regions of North America. The exact timing can vary depending on your location and local climate.
2. Fruit Appearance: Look for changes in the fruit's appearance. Ripe pawpaws will have a slightly yellowish-green to yellowish-brown skin, with some dark spots or patches. The skin may also become slightly wrinkled, and the fruit should give slightly to gentle pressure.
3. Fruit Aroma: Ripe pawpaws emit a sweet and tropical aroma when they are ready for harvest. This aroma is a good indicator of their ripeness.
4. Fruit Softness: Gently press the fruit with your fingers. A ripe pawpaw should yield slightly to pressure, similar to a ripe peach or avocado. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as the fruit bruises easily.
5. Fruit Taste: If you're unsure about the ripeness, you can try tasting a small section of the fruit. The flesh should be soft, creamy, and have a sweet, tropical flavor with hints of banana, mango, and melon.
6. Fruit Drop: Some pawpaws will naturally drop from the tree when they are ripe. However, you can also harvest them gently by hand when they meet the criteria mentioned above.

It's important to note that pawpaws are highly perishable and have a relatively short shelf life once harvested, usually a few days to a week. If you plan to store them, refrigeration can help extend their freshness.
Keep in mind that the exact timing of pawpaw harvest may vary from year to year and from one location to another. Observing the fruit's appearance, aroma, and texture is the most reliable way to determine when pawpaws are at their peak of ripeness and ready for harvest.