PAW PAW (ASIMINA TRILOBA)
Join us for an unforgettable deep dive into the world of the pawpaw, North America's best-kept secret and most intriguing fruit. This community event will explore the rich history, cultivation practices, and the controversies surrounding the elusive pawpaw, often dubbed the "forgotten fruit." Discover how this native treasure has woven itself into the fabric of American culture, from Indigenous uses to modern-day culinary delights. Patrons will not only learn how to grow and care for pawpaws but also get hands-on with delicious recipes that showcase its unique flavor and texture. And yes, you’ll even get a chance to taste this tropical-like delicacy. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a gardening enthusiast, this event promises to intrigue your mind and delight your palate. Don’t miss your chance to uncover the secrets of the pawpaw!
THE IMPORTANCE OF PAW PAW TO MODERN PERMACULTURE
Permaculture emphasizes working with nature rather than against it, focusing on designing and managing ecosystems that are diverse, resilient, and sustainable. A key element of modern permaculture is the cultivation of pawpaws (Asimina triloba), a nutritious and environmentally beneficial fruit. Native to North America, pawpaws have been valued by Indigenous peoples for their medicinal and culinary uses for millennia. Today, they are gaining popularity as a sustainable food crop in permaculture systems.
Pawpaws are well-suited to various climates, from Florida, United States to southern Ontario, Canada, and thrive in different soil types, making them an ideal crop for many permaculture farms. They offer numerous benefits, both nutritionally and environmentally. Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, fiber, and healthy fats, pawpaws are a low-calorie, low-glycemic fruit, making them a great choice for those with diabetes or other health concerns.
Environmentally, pawpaws are a sustainable crop that requires minimal inputs. They are naturally resistant to pests and diseases, needing little to no pesticides or chemicals. They also require relatively little water, making them suitable for areas with limited rainfall. As perennial plants, pawpaws provide a reliable food source year after year without needing to be replanted. Beyond their nutritional and environmental benefits, pawpaws hold cultural significance, particularly in their traditional use by Indigenous peoples. Cultivating pawpaws in modern permaculture systems can help preserve cultural diversity and connect us with local food systems and traditional foodways.
Incorporating pawpaws into permaculture systems is a significant step toward creating a more sustainable, diverse, and resilient food system. By embracing this delicious fruit, we can foster ecosystems that benefit both people and the planet. If you’re looking to add sustainable crops to your permaculture system, consider planting pawpaws—your body and the environment will thank you!
MY JOURNEY TO THE PAW PAW
PAWPAW OR PAPAYA
Pawpaw, Asimina triloba, is considered by many to be the most delicious fruit in North America, especially if you appreciate the rich, custardy flavor of tropical fruits. My journey to discover pawpaw began while searching online for Carica papaya, or South American pawpaw. Frustrated by the lack of information on specific varieties, I shifted my search to forums using the common name "pawpaw," or papaya as it is commonly referred to in the United States. Although I didn't find the Carica papaya I was looking for, I stumbled upon the fascinating world of Asimina triloba—commonly known as pawpaw or "poor man's banana." The pawpaw is the only temperate variety of a mostly tropical and subtropical family which explains its expansive range from Florida to Southern Ontario. Pawpaw belongs to the Annonaceae family boasting popular tropical fruits like Soursop and Sweetsop.
Image: Finding my first Paw Paw in the woods around Lake Jordon- Chatham County, NC
PAWPAW FRUIT
I had never tasted pawpaw before, but the online descriptions were so intriguing that I decided to purchase the trees sight unseen. Years later, I finally got the chance to try this North American delicacy. After moving to a new home, I struck up a conversation with our neighbor, who was from West Virginia. When I mentioned that I was growing pawpaw trees on the west side of our home, we ended up talking at length—he was the only person I knew who had actually tasted the fruit. He promised to bring some back if he found them while camping in West Virginia. To my surprise, months later, he sent me a message, calling me over because he had remembered our conversation and had a single fruit to spare. I vividly remember that first bite—it was like tasting a perfectly sweet banana with the creamy texture of a smaller mango variety and the subtle tang of soursop. The flavor was buttery, custardy, and utterly delicious.
Image: Pawpaw fruit
MY FIRST TREE
In 2018, I purchased these pawpaw trees at a the Raleigh Farmer’s Market. They were small, each with just four leaves, but they were the last two available, and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take them home. Concerned about their survival through the winter in flimsy nursery pots, I carefully placed them against the walls between our apartment and a makeshift greenhouse for extra protection. Thankfully, they made it through the winter. Here’s an image of how they looked the following spring.
Image: Pawpaw trees Wake County, NC. June 5, 2019.
BRIEF HISTORY OF PAW PAW
HA’SIMINIKIISFWA
The pawpaw, native to eastern North America, is the largest native fruit in the U.S. and was historically significant to Native American diets, especially among tribes like the Shawnee, who dedicated a month to its harvest. The fruit, often called the "poor man's banana," was essential during the Great Depression and supported explorers like Lewis and Clark. Though it was once widespread, the pawpaw’s popularity declined after World War II. The fruit, with a taste between banana and mango, is now mostly found at farmer's markets due to its short shelf life. It holds cultural significance, particularly for displaced tribes like the Shawnee, as a link to their ancestral lands. Despite its resilience, pawpaw trees struggle to reproduce due to poor pollination. Some Indigenous people, like Dr. Devon Mihesuah, are working to revive its cultural relevance by cultivating the fruit and reconnecting with traditional foodways. Efforts to grow pawpaws reflect a desire to heal historical trauma and preserve Indigenous heritage. The pawpaw’s unique flavor and historical importance make it a symbol of cultural resilience and connection.
PAW PAW V. PAW PAW
The confusion between pawpaw and papaya in early American history likely arose due to settlers' unfamiliarity with native plants. When European settlers first encountered the pawpaw tree in North America, they were struck by its tropical-like appearance and fruit, which reminded them of the papaya from the Caribbean and Central America. Settlers, unfamiliar with this native fruit, mistakenly associated it with the papaya, Carica papaya, a completely different tropical species. The name "pawpaw" likely evolved as a variant of "papaya," reflecting this mix-up. This misnaming stuck, and even today, the pawpaw is sometimes confused with the papaya. Despite the initial confusion, the pawpaw became an important food source for Native Americans and early settlers alike. Over time, as settlers became more familiar with the local flora, they recognized the pawpaw as a distinct and valuable native plant. Since then it has taken on several names like hillbilly banana, Indian banana, and Banango.
THE PROBLEM OF POOR POLLINATION
PAW PAW SEEDLING GERMINATION
Harvesting and sowing pawpaw seeds involves a series of careful steps to ensure successful germination and growth. Here's a description of the process:
Harvesting the Fruit: Begin by selecting fully ripe pawpaws from the tree. The fruit should be soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma, indicating peak ripeness. Gently harvest the fruit to avoid bruising, as pawpaws are delicate and can be easily damaged.
Extracting the Seeds: Once harvested, cut the pawpaw fruit open to reveal the large, brown seeds embedded in the creamy flesh. Scoop out the seeds, taking care to remove any attached pulp. It’s essential to clean the seeds thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining fruit residue, which can inhibit germination.
Stratification Process: Pawpaw seeds require a period of cold moist stratification to break dormancy and prepare for germination. Place the cleaned seeds in a plastic bag with a moist medium, such as peat moss or sand. Seal the bag and store it in a refrigerator at a temperature of around 32-40°F (0-4°C) for 90 to 180 days. In North Carolina seeds should be store from harvest to February. This simulates the natural winter conditions the seeds would experience in the wild.
Preparing for Sowing: After the stratification period, it’s time to sow the seeds. Choose a well-draining potting mix and fill extra deep 4inch pot or seed trays. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep in the soil, ensuring they are spaced adequately to allow for root growth.
Germination and Care: Place the pots in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as pawpaw seeds require a stable, humid environment to germinate. Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so patience is key.
Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves and are strong enough, they can be carefully transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground, depending on the climate and time of year. Select a site with rich, well-draining soil and partial shade for optimal growth.
By following these steps, participants can successfully harvest, prepare, and sow pawpaw seeds, contributing to the propagation of this unique and valuable native fruit.
CREATING A PAWPAW PATCH: CULTIVATING HABITAT FOR POLLINATORS
THE PROBLEM OF POOR POLLINATION.
Poor pollination has always been a challenge for pawpaw trees, even in their natural habitats. While some growers have resorted to hanging dead animals from the branches to attract pollinators, those with weaker stomachs often turn to hand pollination. But what creatures are naturally drawn to a plant with a flesh-colored, death-like scent? Flies and carrion beetles, of course. We've all seen them in nature, swarming around animal carcasses and tunneling through waste. However, while these insects have no trouble locating pet waste, the relatively mild scent of the pawpaw and the unreliability of carrion beetles and flies contribute to the tree's low pollination rates, even in the wild. To complicate matters further, unlike other species in the Annonaceae family, such as soursop and sweetsop, which are self-fertile, pawpaw trees are self-incompatible. This means they often require a genetically distinct companion tree for successful fertilization. Some great companions to improve the attraction of pollinators to Pawpaw trees include: magnolia trees, eastern skunk cabbage, stinking hellebore, and fetid trillium. All these factors make pawpaw trees common, but their fruit quite rare. Fortunately there are steps you can take to make a productive PawPaw Patch, creating a genetically diverse patch by removing runners and planting seedlings and cultivating a hospitable habitat for pollinators.
THE PROBLEM OF POOR POLLINATION
CREATING A PAWPAW PATCH: INCREASING GENETIC DIVERSITY BY SOWING SEEDLINGS.
Attract Pollinators with Fetid-Smelling Plants
Pawpaw trees naturally attract pollinators like flies and beetles, which are drawn to the tree’s mild, death-like scent. To enhance this effect and draw more pollinators to your pawpaw patch, plant fetid-smelling companions that thrive in part-sun conditions:
Fetid Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus): Known for its pungent smell, this plant blooms early in the season, offering a much-needed attraction for early pollinators.
Fetid Trillium (Trillium erectum): With its strong odor and striking appearance, this trillium is an excellent companion for pawpaws.
Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus): This native plant emits a powerful odor that attracts carrion flies, making it an ideal addition to your pawpaw patch.
Magnolia (Magnolia spp.): While not as fetid as other plants, magnolia flowers have a rich, sweet scent that also attracts a variety of beetles, including those that pollinate pawpaw trees.
Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum): This native plant has a unique appearance and a slightly fetid odor, attracting pollinators that are also interested in pawpaw flowers.
Yellow Trout Lily (Erythronium americanum): This plant offers early spring blooms with a mild, earthy scent that appeals to early-season pollinators.
Feed Pollinators with Beetle Friendly Plants
To sustain pollinators throughout the growing season, plant nectar-rich species that thrive in part-sun conditions and provide food sources for the insects crucial to pawpaw pollination:
Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.): Heuchera’s tiny bell-shaped flowers are a favorite of small pollinators and provide a continuous food source throughout the spring and summer.
Asters (Aster spp.): Asters bloom late in the season, offering critical nectar and pollen to pollinators preparing for winter. They are particularly attractive to beetles like the black vine weevil and strawberry weevil, both of which contribute to pawpaw pollination.
Cyclamens (Cyclamen spp.): These shade-loving plants have long-lasting blooms that provide food for pollinators during the cooler months, extending the availability of nectar in your garden.
House Pollinators with Natural Shelters
Providing habitats for pollinators ensures they have a safe place to live, breed, and overwinter. Incorporating natural elements into your pawpaw patch can create a welcoming environment for a variety of insects:
Hardwood Mulch: Mulching with hardwood helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provides a habitat for ground-dwelling beetles and other pollinators.
Stumpery: A stumpery, or a garden feature created from tree stumps, roots, and logs, offers shelter and breeding grounds for beetles, bees, and other beneficial insects.
Dead Wood Stack: Piling up dead wood in a shaded area creates a natural habitat for beetles and other wood-boring insects that are vital for pawpaw pollination.
Leaf Pile: A simple pile of leaves can offer a winter refuge for many pollinators, including beneficial beetles and moths.
Compost Heap: A compost heap not only enriches your soil but also provides a warm, nutrient-rich habitat for insects that contribute to the overall health of your garden.
Stones: Flat stones placed in the garden can serve as basking spots for insects and offer shelter underneath for pollinators and their larvae.
Beetle Hotel: A specifically designed beetle hotel can provide year-round lodging for a variety of beetles, ensuring a stable population of pollinators in your garden.
PRESERVING PAW
THIN SKINNED MARVEL
Pawpaws are a delicate fruit with easily bruised skin and a very short shelf life, making them challenging to store and preserve. Once harvested, ripe pawpaws must be consumed within 3-5 days, as they quickly ripen beyond their prime. If unripe, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks, but only with careful handling and monitoring. The challenge of preserving pawpaws has been recognized since the time of Native Americans, who would dry the flesh into small cakes that could be consumed as is or rehydrated into sauces. Today, a common preservation method is to remove the fleshy pulp and freeze it, similar to how my mother preserves soursop, a tropical fruit related to pawpaw. This frozen pulp can later be used in a variety of culinary creations, such as blending it into drinks, smoothies, or making sorbets and ice cream. Preserving pawpaws requires careful attention to timing and technique, as their delicate nature makes them particularly vulnerable to spoilage. Freezing is one of the most effective methods, but it’s important to remove the pulp before the fruit overripens. Additionally, making jams, jellies, or even fermenting the pulp for use in baked goods are other methods that have been explored by enthusiasts who want to extend the enjoyment of this unique fruit.
The pawpaw is more than just a forgotten fruit; it is a symbol of resilience, cultural significance, and sustainability. As we delve into its rich history and unique qualities, we uncover a fruit that has the potential to reshape our approach to modern permaculture and reconnect us with traditional foodways. Whether you're cultivating your own pawpaw patch, experimenting with new recipes, or simply savoring its custardy flavor, the pawpaw offers an opportunity to engage with nature in a deeply meaningful way. Join us on this journey of discovery.
PAW PAW SEEDLING CARE
1. Choosing the Right Location
Sunlight: Pawpaw seedlings need partial shade for the first year or two, as they are understory plants in their natural habitat. Once established, they thrive in full sun, which promotes fruiting.
Soil: Pawpaws prefer well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5–7). Loamy soils enriched with organic matter are ideal.
Space: Ensure at least 15-20 feet between trees for proper airflow and to allow them to grow without competition.
2. Planting Instructions
Timing: The best time to plant pawpaw seedlings is in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
Digging the Hole: Dig a hole about twice as wide and as deep as the seedling's root ball. This ensures the roots have loose soil to spread into.
Planting Depth: Place the seedling in the hole so the base of the stem is level with the ground. Do not plant too deep.
Backfill: Gently backfill the hole with the soil you dug up, ensuring there are no air pockets. Press down lightly to secure the seedling.
Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (e.g., straw, wood chips) around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. This helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Watering
Consistent Moisture: Pawpaw trees require regular watering, especially in the first two years while establishing their root system. Water deeply once a week during dry periods, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch: Maintain the mulch layer to help the soil retain moisture.
4. Fertilizing
First Year: Avoid fertilizing your pawpaw in its first year, as the roots are sensitive. Focus on watering and allowing the tree to establish.
Subsequent Years: After the first year, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) in early spring to promote healthy growth. Alternatively, using compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil health and provide nutrients.
5. Protecting Your Seedling
Shade Protection: In the first year or two, use a shade cloth or plant it near taller plants to shield the seedling from direct sun.
Wind Protection: Young pawpaws are sensitive to strong winds. If planting in a windy area, consider a windbreak like a fence or other shrubs.
Wildlife Protection: Deer and rabbits may browse on young pawpaws. You can install a wire cage or mesh around the seedling to protect it.
6. Pollination
Companion Trees: Pawpaws are not self-pollinating. Plant at least two genetically different pawpaw treeswithin 15-30 feet of each other to ensure cross-pollination for fruit production.
Pollinators: Pawpaws rely on beetles and flies for pollination, so creating a pollinator-friendly environment (like planting nearby wildflowers) can help.
7. Long-Term Care
Pruning: Minimal pruning is required for pawpaws. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches in late winter or early spring.
Pest Control: Pawpaws are relatively pest-resistant, though occasional leaf spots or minor insect damage can occur. Hand-picking insects or using organic pest control methods like neem oil should suffice.
Harvesting: After 5-8 years, pawpaw trees will start to bear fruit in late summer to early fall. Fruits are ready for harvest when they turn slightly soft and emit a sweet aroma.
EVENT SCHEDULE
11:00 PM RAFFLE SIGN UP
11:30 AM PAW PAW OVERVIEW
12:30 PM PAW PAW SEED GERMINATION
1:30 PM SELECT YOUR PLANTS (FETID AND FOOD)
2:30 PM CREATE YOUR BUG HOTEL
3:30 PM PAW PAW TRIVIA
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